Anxiety Statistics

The Truth about Anxiety Statistics

One of the most important, and possibly most comforting, of anxiety statistics is that virtually everyone will feel anxious at some point in their lives. For most people, it is mildly unsettling as an infrequent condition; others, however, suffer from chronic anxiety disorders that may require medical treatment.

Anxiety has been classified as an emotion; a cerebral emotion that confuses and muddles the mind. It is a feeling of tension and prevailing worry that takes over an individual’s mental and physical abilities. It is normal and extremely common among humans; occurring as we worry about our finances, our personal relationships, our job and our loved ones. Anxiety becomes a problem when an individual experiences extensive worry the majority of days in a six month period. When this occurs, doctors begin to see the episodes of worry as a disorder. Unfortunately, there are no tests available to confirm the diagnosis or be able to pinpoint a specific cause for the problem.

Common symptoms that are associated with anxiety are a racing heart, chest tightness and a feeling as though they have a pit in the stomach. Other symptoms can be experienced by different individuals, including profuse sweating, trembling and headaches. An overwhelming feeling of dread and trepidation often assumes control over the individual.

Extensive research has been and continues to be done on anxieties. Statistics show that women are more likely to suffer from anxiety than men by almost twice or even triple the number. There is no definitive reason for this; it could be that anxiety in men often is unreported or that men simply are not affected by stress in the same way as women. Women tend to experience types of stress that men do not; the stress of juggling home life and work life as well as the stress of being the caregiver for others such as children or aging relatives. One theory is that, with their focus continually on external factors, women are unable to receive satisfaction for their own emotional, spiritual and physical needs. This leads to feelings of stress and anxiety.

Studies show that certain behaviors attribute to anxiety, as well. Substance abuse, including alcohol and drugs, is often a precursor to the disorder; but by the same token, having an anxiety disorder can also lead to substance abuse. Research data shows that approximately 20% of those suffering from anxiety also have a problem with substance abuse. In addition, depression and anxiety often go hand in hand. For an estimated 3.5% to 5% of people who endure the suffocating effects of depression, some type of anxiety disorder is also diagnosed. While the symptoms of each condition may be similar, there are marked differences between the two which makes the diagnosis easier to reach.

Some interesting facts relating to anxiety statistics can give understanding as to how problematic this condition is:

Over 40 billion dollars each year are spent treating anxiety, according to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. This amount represents approximately 1/3 of all mental health costs.
Over 18% of adult individuals will experience an anxiety disorder each year.
Many people suffering from anxiety believe they have an actual physical condition and seek medical help.
The age when feelings of anxiety generally begin is around 20 years of age.
A condition called “Generalized Anxiety Disorder”, which is a more severe form of anxiety, usually begins to appear around age 31, although it can be experienced at any time.

Though it is a natural emotion in all individuals, anxiety statistics show that approximately 13% of the population will have a more severe form that is classified as a disorder. The positive news is that many cases are treatable and, in time, those individuals can return to a normal, fully functioning life.