What Causes Anxiety Attacks?

Although much has been written about what causes anxiety attacks, the truth is that the exact cause is still not known. Fortunately, though, the research in this field is extensive and has become very focused over the past few decades. As a result, many potential causes for anxiety have begun to surface. While each individual case is different, experts now seem to agree upon certain factors that that may serve as precursors to this illness. With this new information on the potential causes of anxiety attacks, the future has begun to look a little brighter in terms of the ability to treat it.

According to the National Institute for Mental Health, more than 40 million Americans suffer from some type of anxiety disorder. Of these, 75 percent will have their first attack before the age of 21, and more than 90 percent of these will have at least 3 major episodes in the course of their lifetime. Staggering statistics indeed, especially when you consider that there is no universal consensus for treating the illness.

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In the search for a cure, much like with any illness, the best strategy is one that seeks to determine just what causes anxiety attacks in the first place. Perhaps if this knowledge was more cohesive and widespread this illness could be thwarted before it has an opportunity to take hold. Some of those causes are listed below:

Heredity and Anxiety

Just as some are more genetically predisposed to heart disease or diabetes, anxiety also seems to run in the family. While the genetic link was initially doubted by many experts—those that were undoubtedly looking for a direct causal link—the numbers seem to overwhelmingly prove them wrong. Those with a family history of some type of anxiety disorder are three times as likely to develop anxiety themselves, suggesting, if not confirming, that the dreaded family tree plays a significant role and is a primary risk factor.

Anxiety and Brain Chemistry

A close look at an individual’s brain chemistry can give us a glimpse into exactly what causes anxiety attacks to occur. Within the brain, information travels from cell to cell via chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. In people with anxiety it is thought that the number and functioning of these transmitters is abnormal, thus causing a disruption in the messaging process. When the neurotransmitters are out of balance it can change the way the body and mind react to certain situations, which can in turn lead to anxiety.

Environmental or Situational Anxiety Causes

Undue stress or trauma can also lead to anxiety symptoms. A death in the family, a change of school or job, or a difficult break-up can all precipitate the onset of anxiety related symptoms, and although many may feel they are coping with the stress effectively, the internal response can tell quite a different story. Recognizing and dealing with the stress in a positive manner is one of the best ways to prevent anxiety from surfacing.

Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine have also been cited as potential causes of an anxiety attack and should either be used in moderation or avoided altogether, especially in those with other risk factors such as a family history of the illness.

Learning to recognize what causes anxiety attacks is the best first step in any treatment plan or coping strategy. By eliminating or curtailing situations in which anxiety appears to flourish, the prospect of avoiding future attacks can be significantly brighter.

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