Understanding The Science: Can Anxiety Be Treated, Or Will I Always Feel This Way?
Medically reviewed by Majesty Purvis, LCMHC
Updated April 20, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team
While anxiety disorders may not completely go away, they can often be effectively managed with a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques. Yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage therapy, nutritional supplements, and support from loved ones can all be helpful tools for relieving mental health symptoms. Working with a licensed mental health professional is often believed to be the best avenue toward healing, and you can begin by joining an online therapy platform and matching with a therapist.
Seeing no end to your anxiety symptoms?
What is an anxiety disorder?
Most of us experience occasional anxiety that arises due to the demands of everyday life. When feelings like nervousness, worry, and tension become severe or persistent, though, they may indicate the presence of a mental health condition. Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions characterized by unease, fear, or worry. In addition to concerns related to mental health, issues connected to physical health can arise out of an anxiety disorder. The physical symptoms of anxiety include increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, and difficulty concentrating. The symptoms of anxiety can significantly impact an individual’s life as they may interfere with daily activities and cause a person to feel overwhelmed.
Anxiety disorders are generally the most common type of mental health disorder in the United States. It is estimated that anxiety disorders affect around 19% of adults in the U.S. every year. Women are usually more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men, and anxiety disorders often first appear in childhood or adolescence.
Types of anxiety disorders can include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobias. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder, but they typically include excessive worry or fear, avoidance of certain situations or objects, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms, such as increased heart rate and sweating.
The following are three common anxiety disorders.
Generalized anxiety disorder
Characterized by intense worry and fear that occur in multiple situations, generalized anxiety disorder can cause irritability, tiredness, sleep problems, and trouble focusing. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, to be diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, an individual must experience anxious feelings—as evidenced by at least three of the listed symptoms—most days for a six-month period.
Panic disorder
If an individual experiences frequent panic attacks, they may be living with an anxiety disorder known as panic disorder. Panic attacks are sudden bouts of severe anxiety marked by often-concerning physical and mental symptoms, including racing heart, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, and a feeling of losing control. For healthcare professionals to diagnose panic disorder based on the guidelines in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an individual typically must present with continuing panic attacks and ongoing concern about their recurrence.
Specific phobia
Specific phobias are fears of certain experiences or objects that are disproportionate to the danger posed by the stimuli. People with these anxiety disorders tend to engage in avoidance activities that can, along with the other symptoms, significantly impact their everyday life. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the symptoms of a specific phobia typically must last for six months.
What causes anxiety symptoms?
While the exact cause of anxiety is unknown, several risk factors have been identified. One major factor that likely impacts anxiety is genetics. Research suggests that individuals with a family history of anxiety are more likely to develop anxiety disorders themselves.
Brain chemistry
The way our brains process information can also influence how we experience anxiety. For example, people with high levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin tend to have lower levels of anxiety than those with low serotonin levels. It’s generally believed that this could be because serotonin usually helps control mood and emotions, which can help with managing stress and reducing anxiety symptoms.
Environmental factors
Environmental factors, such as major life changes or trauma, can also contribute to the development of an anxiety disorder. For example, suppose someone experiences a traumatic event, such as a car accident or physical assault. In that case, they may have persistent feelings of fear or worry associated with the event, which could contribute to the development of an anxiety disorder over time if left untreated. In addition, environmental factors, such as chronic stress from work or school, can also put someone at risk for developing an anxiety disorder due to prolonged exposure to negative feelings and thoughts.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
Medical conditions
Medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or heart disease, can also be linked to increased anxiety levels in some individuals. These conditions typically cause physical symptoms like rapid heart rate and difficulty breathing, which can trigger feelings of panic and fear in those affected, potentially leading to an increase in their overall level of anxiousness.
Is anxiety curable?
While there may be no cure for anxiety, it tends to be a highly treatable condition, and many people have successfully managed their symptoms with the help of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments. With the right treatment plan, people can experience a significant decrease in their anxiety levels and lead happier, more fulfilling lives.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders
The diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders usually involve evaluation by a mental health provider or doctor. If a diagnosis is called for based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, there are several effective treatments available. Treatment options may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, or both.
Medications
Most medications used to treat anxiety disorders work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin that can help improve mood and reduce feelings of fear or agitation.
Neurotransmitters can be defined as chemical messengers produced naturally in our bodies that carry signals from one brain cell to another. When these chemicals become imbalanced, it can lead to depression or anxiety.
By increasing levels of these neurotransmitters through various actions, anti-anxiety medications may restore balance and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Never start or stop any form of medication without the guidance of a licensed medical professional.
Therapy
The ability to express our feelings can be an extremely powerful tool in managing many of the stresses and anxieties of life. Therapists are usually specifically trained to promote a safe, nurturing environment for people with anxiety to explore their emotions and gain insight into their well-being.
Talk therapy has been extensively supported by research as an effective treatment option for anxiety disorders, with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in particular as one of the most research-backed and effective approaches. The modality a therapist utilizes will often depend on the anxiety disorder present. For example, when treating anxiety related to a specific phobia, a professional may utilize exposure therapy. Other commonly used therapeutic methods for treating anxiety disorders include acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
By taking the time to talk through our problems and understand our thoughts and feelings, we may experience improved mental health, potentially leading to a more positive outlook on life. Therapists can help people with anxiety disorders not only address unpleasant feelings but also develop healthy coping strategies and identify potential sources of their symptoms. Therapy can also provide an individual with the opportunity to address other mental health conditions. Common comorbidities with panic disorder, for example, include depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and other anxiety disorders.
Holistic approaches
In addition to traditional treatments like medication and psychotherapy, a variety of natural remedies and self-help strategies can be beneficial in managing symptoms associated with anxiety disorders.
These holistic approaches may include yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage therapy, nutritional supplements, and relaxation techniques, like deep breathing exercises and guided visualization.
Yoga
Yoga is often defined as an ancient practice that originated in India. It typically involves a series of physical postures and breathing exercises. Yoga can be effective in reducing stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and increasing feelings of well-being.
One study found that yoga may be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of social anxiety disorder.
Meditation
Meditation can be another stress-reducing technique that is thought to have roots in ancient Eastern practices. Meditation normally involves focusing on a particular object or thought and letting other thoughts come and go without getting attached to them. Research has shown that meditation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that mindfulness meditation could effectively reduce anxiety among employees experiencing high-stress levels.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is generally seen as a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that usually involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture is often believed to have been used for centuries to treat various conditions, including anxiety.
A recent study found that acupuncture could effectively reduce generalized anxiety disorder symptoms.
Massage therapy
Massage therapy is another approach that may help manage anxiety. Massage therapy generally uses pressure and strokes on the muscles and tissues to promote relaxation. Research has demonstrated that massage therapy can be a beneficial treatment option for decreasing anxiety symptoms, among other psychiatric symptoms and disorders.
Nutritional supplements
In addition to eating a balanced diet, taking certain nutritional supplements may help manage anxiety symptoms as well. For instance, research has found that there may be an association between reduced anxiety and omega-3 fatty acids, more fruits and vegetables, zinc, magnesium and selenium, and probiotics, among other nutritional and dietary components.
Please consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your treatment plan.
Seeing no end to your anxiety symptoms?
Benefits of combining online therapy and holistic approaches to anxiety
One potential advantage of integrating traditional therapies with holistic approaches to anxiety management may be that it can empower individuals to tailor a plan that works best for them.
Traditional therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can provide essential insights into the underlying causes of anxiety and develop strategies for coping with anxious thoughts and feelings.
You can attend CBT sessions in person or online, which may be more convenient and comfortable for those with anxiety. Being able to get professional help from the comfort of your own living room often feels far less intimidating than meeting with a therapist face-to-face, which may be why many opt for online therapy.
A strong body of evidence has demonstrated the effectiveness of online therapy for anxiety. Both online therapy and in-person therapy can be valid forms of treatment, so the choice is largely down to your personal preferences and needs.
Holistic approaches, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or aromatherapy, can then be used in conjunction with these techniques to reduce anxiety symptoms further. Another benefit of combining traditional therapies with holistic treatments may be that it can allow for greater self-awareness and insight into the individual experiencing anxiety.
By exploring both physical and emotional aspects of their experience, an individual can better understand their condition, which can lead to more effective coping strategies over time.
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Takeaway
Anxiety can be a normal emotion that may become debilitating if left untreated. However, with the proper knowledge and techniques, there are often practical solutions for calming down and regaining stability. From uncovering its causes to embracing self-care tools like mindfulness and positive self-talk, the journey of tackling your worries can be initiated from within. Working with a licensed therapist in person or through an online therapy platform can also be an excellent way to manage anxiety symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.
Can a person be cured of anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are generally not considered to be curable, but they can typically be managed with the right treatment plan. Treatment for anxiety generally consists of some type of therapy, sometimes in combination with medication. By working with a psychologist or therapist, you can learn healthy coping mechanisms to help manage your symptoms, from excessive worry to panic attacks.
Is anxiety a lifelong condition?
Anxiety disorders are typically referred to as “treatable” rather than “curable.” There’s currently no treatment that can make all symptoms of anxiety disappear forever, but there are effective methods that can help a person manage their symptoms well. A course of treatment for anxiety usually consists of therapy and the implementation of healthy coping mechanisms, sometimes in combination with medication over the short or longer term.
What skills help tension?
There are many different coping skills that may help you manage symptoms of an anxiety disorder. A few examples include:
- Practicing cognitive reframing techniques
- Practicing mindfulness meditation
- Keeping a journal
- Using breathing techniques for relaxation
- Identifying and learning to manage your triggers
- Managing tendencies toward perfectionism
- Implementing self-compassion techniques
- Eating nutritious foods
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough sleep
What is the root of anxiety?
The root of feelings of anxiety can vary widely for different people and across different situations. They tend to be deeply embedded, as they’re often tied to formative experiences earlier in life. That means that discovering yours can take time and effort—but the benefits can be significant, since understanding the root may help you better manage the effects.
To figure out what the root of your anxieties might be, you can aim to develop a sense of mindfulness—or nonjudgemental awareness—so you can start noticing when you feel anxious and why. Then, you can try to see what may be behind certain fears, taking into account past experiences and events and current behavior patterns. For example, feeling afraid and anxious about a romantic partner someday being unfaithful could be a result of a sense of abandonment from a parent or caregiver during your childhood.
How can I permanently fix my anxiety?
There’s generally no permanent fix available for anxiety or anxiety disorders. However, the right treatment can make a significant difference in how your symptoms may affect your daily life—even if you're experiencing severe symptoms such as debilitating worry, a strong phobia of social events and situations, or frequent panic attacks, for example. Meeting with a therapist is one way to learn to manage anxiety and address its effects on your life and relationships.
Does anxiety go away with age?
Anxiety typically doesn’t go away—and may even worsen—without treatment. An inability to control or great difficulty controlling worry, panic attack, ritualistic behaviors, and other forms of symptoms may increasingly affect one’s life, well-being, and even relationships with friends and family until they are addressed with the help of your primary care doctor and therapist.
At what age does anxiety peak?
There’s no one age at which anxiety tends to peak for everyone. Symptoms can be at their most intense at virtually any age depending on the individual and their life circumstances. If you’re experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder or if you’ve already been diagnosed but your anxiety-related thoughts and behaviors are worsening from week to week, it’s generally recommended that you seek the support of a mental health professional.
Does anxiety get worse with age?
Anxiety may get worse with age for some people, particularly if it’s left untreated. Past symptoms can also take different forms or manifest in different ways as a person ages and their life circumstances change. Meeting with a mental health professional for support is typically recommended if you’re experiencing anxiety symptoms that are impacting your life.
What makes anxiety worse?
There are various circumstances and lifestyle elements that could exacerbate the anxiety a person feels. Some examples include high stress levels, physical illness, a lack of sleep, high amounts of caffeine, a diet that lacks nutritious foods, and a lack of regular exercise.
What does anxiety feel like?
Anxiety often manifests as persistent worry or fear that feels difficult to control, in some form or another. It could take the form of overthinking or an overarching feeling of dread. Anxiety can also have physical effects, from muscle tension and headaches to a racing heartbeat and sweating.
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