Doctors in the U.S. are being encouraged to screen adults for anxiety on a regular basis. This is the first time the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has called for routine anxiety screening in primary care settings for adults who don’t show obvious symptoms.
Mental Health is Gaining More Attention
Experts are emphasizing that mental health is just as important as physical health, and some workplaces are finally acknowledging this. The stress of managing work, parenting, food insecurity, and lingering uncertainty from the pandemic has affected many.
Even though the pandemic officially ended years ago, its impact continues to weigh on people, contributing to ongoing anxiety for many individuals, according to U.S. Health.
“We need to acknowledge it and talk about it,” said Sue Abderholden from NAMI Minnesota. She noted that most people have experienced episodes of anxiety or depression, whether for a few days or over several years.
Anxiety Increased Globally
During the pandemic, anxiety—the most common mental health disorder—spiked globally by 25%. According to Abderholden, it takes an average of 23 years for someone to seek treatment after first experiencing symptoms.
Anxiety disorders are one of the most frequent mental health concerns in the U.S., affecting about 40% of women and over one in four men at some point in their lives.
Screening and Insurance Decisions
The new draft recommendations, open for public comment, often guide insurance coverage decisions. Beyond anxiety, the task force is also recommending depression screening for adults.
Unlike a diagnosis, anxiety screening involves a brief seven-question assessment. These questions help identify how often someone feels nervous or experiences other anxiety-related feelings.
Treating Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are manageable conditions, similar to other health issues like high blood pressure. “Identifying the problem is the first step to getting help,” Abderholden added.
The CDC offers strategies for coping with stress, such as:
- Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule
- Staying active and sitting less
- Practising deep breathing or meditation
If you need immediate help, call 911 or reach the Suicide Lifeline by dialling or texting 988.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress that can sometimes help by making you alert to danger or preparing you for challenges. But when anxiety becomes overwhelming or disproportionate to the situation, it can lead to an anxiety disorder.
Around 40 million people in the U.S. have an anxiety disorder, though only 36.9% receive treatment.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety
Beyond feelings of worry, anxiety can cause:
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Muscle tension
- Trouble focusing or sleeping
In severe cases, it can lead to panic attacks, which include symptoms like:
- Hyperventilation
- Pounding heartbeat
- Sweating and trembling
- A sense of losing control
Types of Anxiety Disorders
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders outlines various anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent worry affecting daily life.
- Panic Disorder: Sudden episodes of intense fear.
- Specific Phobias: Fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights or spiders.
- Agoraphobia: Fear of situations where escape might be difficult.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings.
- Separation Anxiety Disorder: Anxiety linked to being apart from a loved one or safe environment.
- Selective Mutism: Inability to speak in certain environments, often seen in children.
Causes of Anxiety
Anxiety disorders can stem from various factors, including:
- Life Circumstances: Stress from work, financial issues, or discrimination.
- Past Trauma: Events causing lasting psychological effects.
- Substance Use: Certain drugs or withdrawal symptoms can trigger anxiety.
- Brain Chemistry: Heightened activity in the brain’s fear centre (amygdala).
- Genetics: A family history of anxiety can increase risk.
- Medical Conditions: Hormonal imbalances or chronic illness may contribute.
Managing Anxiety
There are several ways to address anxiety:
Self-Care
For mild cases, at-home strategies may help, such as:
- Exercise
- Relaxation techniques
- Reducing caffeine
- Talking with a trusted friend
Therapy
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the most common treatment. Examples include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Exposure therapy
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
Medication
Doctors may recommend medications like:
- Antidepressants: Can take several weeks to help with anxiety.
- Beta-Blockers: Manage physical symptoms like a racing heart.
- Benzodiazepines: Fast-acting but only for short-term use due to risks of dependency.
Tips for Prevention
While anxiety may not always be avoidable, certain habits can reduce risk:
- Regular exercise
- Mindfulness or meditation
- Balanced diet
- Consistent sleep schedule
Anxiety affects millions of people, but it’s treatable. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help or explore resources to take control of your mental health.
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