What Causes Anxiety Attacks?
Anxiety attacks often stem from an anxiety disorder, though it's important to note that "anxiety attack" isn't an official diagnosis. Unlike panic attacks, which I'll delve into shortly, an anxiety attack is like a cluster of symptoms triggered by an underlying anxiety disorder.
Imagine grappling with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or a specific phobia—these conditions come with distinct signs. Sometimes, an accumulation of real or perceived situations can create an overwhelming surge of these symptoms. The fear and stress become overwhelming, leading to an attempt to quell the anxiety attack.
Common Signs of an Anxiety Attack
Now, when it comes to the signs of an anxiety attack, they follow some common patterns. Whether they gradually intensify over a few days or strike suddenly, these attacks often involve:
Your heart racing
Upset stomach, sometimes leading to nausea
Sweating and trembling
Dry mouth
Breathing difficulties
Trouble sleeping
Irritability and edginess
Racing thoughts
Mysterious aches and pains, particularly headaches
Feeling a loss of control over fear and worry
How do you distinguish an anxiety attack from a panic attack?
Well, panic attacks share many symptoms, but there are key differences:
Panic attacks are linked to a panic disorder
Panic attacks have specific triggers
Therefore, getting assessed is crucial. Clearly, distress is present, but understanding the underlying cause is necessary for effective treatment.
So, what brings about anxiety attacks?
As mentioned earlier, these attacks result from a convergence of factors. It's likely you already contend with an anxiety disorder, and when various life stressors converge, an anxiety attack can unfold. These stressors might encompass:
Sleep deprivation
Financial issues
Relationship conflicts
Work or school troubles
Apprehension about upcoming events
Health worries
Excessive consumption of caffeine, sugar, and alcohol
Concerns about the state of the world
Navigating major life changes
Coping with loss
And while this list isn't exhaustive, you get the gist. Plus, personal factors could heighten your vulnerability to an anxiety disorder and its ensuing attacks. These factors might include:
A family history of anxiety
Surviving trauma or abuse, especially during childhood
Preexisting mental or physical illness
Substance misuse
A naturally shy disposition
Now, picture a scenario like this: You're generally cautious, and a couple of sleepless nights due to an ailing family member leave you drained. Seeking an energy boost, you double up on coffee. In this state, it takes just one more event to tip the balance. You're suddenly sweating, heart pounding, unable to calm yourself. It seems sudden, but it's been building for a while.
Understanding the cause of anxiety attacks is where a therapist comes in. With numerous variables at play and the challenge of differentiating between panic and anxiety attacks, a therapist can help you explore the root cause in a safe space. Through therapy, you can recognize old patterns, adopt new strategies, and ultimately experience more tranquility and fewer bouts of anxiety. If this resonates, let's connect soon to discuss anxiety treatment.
