What is an Anxiety Disorder?

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people. While occasional anxiety is a normal response to stress, those with anxiety disorders experience excessive, uncontrollable worry or fear that disrupts daily life. These disorders come in various forms, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, and phobias. Common symptoms include restlessness, a rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and a persistent sense of dread or unease.

How is Brain Health Related to Anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are closely linked to brain function, not just emotional reactions. The brain’s role in processing fear and stress is critical, especially in regions like the amygdala, which can become overactive and trigger heightened “fight-or-flight” responses even in non-threatening situations. Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA, further contribute to overactive stress responses. 

Over time, chronic anxiety can alter how different parts of the brain communicate, intensifying feelings of worry and fear. Maintaining brain health is essential to managing and treating anxiety disorders effectively.