Anxiety Disorder More Likely in Women Than Men, North Americans at Higher Risk: 5 Common Treatments
Women Aged 35 are More Prone to Suffer from Anxiety Disorder
Getting anxious from time to time is normal, but having anxiety disorder is another thing. A new study from Cambridge University revealed that women, especially those aged 35 and under, are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorder than men.
The study estimated that around four in 100 people have anxiety, noting that about eight in 100 North Americans suffer anxiety disorder. East Asia has the lowest rate of people suffering from anxiety disorder at three in 100 people. The researchers examined the findings of anxiety reviews that looked at anxiety in different locations across the globe.
People with chronic diseases are more likely to develop anxiety disorder. Cancer patients in the later stages have up to 79 percent chances of experiencing the symptoms while about 10 percent of adults with cardiovascular disease in Western countries have anxiety disorder.
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Also, researchers discovered that Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder was most prevalent in pregnant women and those who have given birth.
"Anxiety disorders can make life extremely difficult for some people and it is important for our health services to understand how common they are and which groups of people are at greatest risk," said Olivia Remes of the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom via Forbes.
It echoed the comment of Dr. Jeffrey Borenstein, CEO, Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, who noted the importance of giving anxiety disorder attention.
Symptoms of anxiety disorder include feelings of panic, fear, uneasiness, problem sleeping, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and not being able to be still and calm.
"There are treatments, including psychological treatments and medication, and other things people can do to help their mental health, such as physical activity, meditation and yoga," Remes said.
Borenstein suggested talk therapy and changing one's lifestyle. Other treatments people with anxiety disorder could try are cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy and relaxation therapy.
Stephen Buckley, the head of information at mental health charity Mind, said, "It is important to speak to someone, such as your GP or friend or family member, as soon as possible so you are not alone in dealing with it and can get the right help and support."
