Why do people feel anxious

Why do I feel anxious and panicky? Symptoms of anxiety Anxiety can have both psychological and physical symptoms. Physical symptoms can include: a pounding heartbeat breathing faster palpitations an irregular heartbeat feeling sick chest pains headaches sweating loss of appetite feeling faint needing the toilet more frequently "butterflies" in your tummy Anxiety can also be a symptom of another condition, such as panic disorder when you have panic attacks or post-traumatic stress disorder , which is caused by frightening or distressing events.

Is anxiety bad for you? Help for anxiety and panic There are effective treatments available for anxiety and panic disorders, so do talk to your GP if you think you may benefit from them. Source: Health Scotland - Opens in new browser window.

While some people may experience an anxiety condition on its own, others may experience multiple anxiety conditions, or other mental health conditions. Depression and anxiety conditions often occur together. It's important to check for and get assistance for all these conditions at the same time. Sign up below for regular emails filled with information, advice and support for you or your loved ones.

You are currently: Home The facts Anxiety What causes anxiety? What causes anxiety? Family history of mental health conditions Some people who experience anxiety conditions may have a genetic predisposition towards anxiety and these conditions can sometimes run in a family. Personality factors Research suggests that people with certain personality traits are more likely to have anxiety. Ongoing stressful events Anxiety conditions may develop because of one or more stressful life events.

Learn more about treatments for anxiety. Read the article in Spanish. People may be experiencing the physical symptoms of anxiety and be concerned that they have COVID Learn more about the difference between the…. Find out why anxiety causes heart palpitations. Learn about different treatment options to reduce anxiety-induced heart palpitations and when to see a…. Dizziness can be a symptom of anxiety. Learn about the link between anxiety and dizziness and about strategies for dealing with anxiety-induced….

Causes and coping techniques for anxiety. Medically reviewed by Marney A. Causes Symptoms When is it a problem? When is anxiety a problem? Avoiding triggers. Coping techniques. Professional treatment. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery? Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes.

Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. Why does anxiety cause heart palpitations? Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Experiencing occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic.

Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Anxiety disorders. Arlington, Va. Accessed Feb. Anxiety disorders. National Institute of Mental Health.

Brown A. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 5,