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The cause of anxiety disorder has been studied for decades. There are various reasons for feeling the way that you do. First, it is important to understand which form of anxiety disorder you may have. Please read: Types of Anxiety to learn more about the various anxiety related emotional disturbances you might be experiencing.
Researchers have been studying the effects of anxiety on the brain and have found much insight into how it effects us. Modern studies indicate that as a result of past, present or perceived circumstances that occurred to an individual, a chemical imbalance may have occurred in the brain. The emotions we feel are based on the release and reuptake of neurotransmitters in the brain. This is how cells within the brain communicate. Feelings off anxiety are triggered by an imbalance of specific 'neurochemicals' in the brain. The specific neurotransmitters that may be affected include serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA and dopamine.
When we feel stressed, anxious or depressed, our brains may be releasing or absorbing (re-uptake) chemicals either too rapidly or too slowly. If left untreated, a chemical imbalance disorder may increase in severity as time passes.
Most modern methods for treating chemical imbalances come in the form of prescription medications. Drugs like Paxil, Prozac and Effexor are believed to have a direct effect on key neurotransmitters. Though these drugs work in about 60% of individuals who take them, patients often report experiencing a wide variety of side effects, and the drug manufacturers themselves aren't even sure how the drugs actually work to 'rebalance' chemicals in the brain. Users of these drugs often report relapse, as the drugs fail to address the underlying causes of anxiety.
The question that needs to be answered before doctors move too hastily in prescribing medications to their patients is : What is the cause of the chemical imbalance?
The Cause of Chemical Imbalance
Some theories suggest that chemical imbalances are a normal part of life. Everyone feels stressed or anxious at times, even depressed. This is a normal response by our body to events occurring around us. It is important to note that the physical or mental feelings we experience and exhibit are being caused by the release of chemicals and hormones in our brains.
As you begin to cope with the stresses that presented themselves, your body starts returning to normal chemical states. Physical, and emotional symptoms begin to diminish. You are able to cope with the stress.
In most cases, we are able to develop coping techniques that can help us to immediately deal with the stress and the imbalance of chemicals that happen as a result. However, if we do not cope with the stresses that present themselves today, our negative feelings, emotions and thoughts take hold and might never let go.
Though the examples provided above are very basic, they demonstrate an approach to resolving anxiety based on addressing the underlying causes. Chemical imbalances may very well be caused by the fact that we have not yet found ways to cope with our underlying problems. Over time, the imbalance may become our brain's normal setting, thus causing stress, anxiety or depression consistently, and for long periods of time.
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