Anxiety disorders: psychological or biological?
28 July 2010
2 Comments
asked:
What I’m asking is, is there a biological basis for my anxiety “disorder” or is it just the way I think? If you looked at my brain, would there be anything different about it than the “average” person’s brain? Can I be “cured” from generalized anxiety disorder with just cognitive behavioral therapy or do I need medication?
What I’m asking is, is there a biological basis for my anxiety “disorder” or is it just the way I think? If you looked at my brain, would there be anything different about it than the “average” person’s brain? Can I be “cured” from generalized anxiety disorder with just cognitive behavioral therapy or do I need medication?
Well, you’re asking a quesiton that has caused arguments by mental health professionals for years: the old Nature vs. Nurture dilemna. But the truth is: anxiety or depression can be either a matter of conditioning or an acutal chemical imbalance of one of the many neurotransmitters in the brain, like serotonin or dopamine.
Many therapists use a combo of cognitive therapy AND medication. Depends on the case. For example: some people may be so paralyzed by anxiety brought on by the chemical imbalance that they CAN’T follow cognitive therapy instructions.
FOr you, the best answer is to simply see a therapist and tell him/her your symptoms, and let the pros decide. And it won;t hurt to try a light med at first. Ask about Propanolol.
Both,
Its caused by an imbalance of a chemical in your brain called Serotonin. This is a problem people are born prone to having which is usually genetically transmitted.
It can be changed or managed with mediation and changing your thoughts..
And yes you can be cured, i used to suffer horibbly from an anxiety disorder starting from the age of 5 and going into remision on and off till i was about 13. I would have panic attacks almost everyday at school. Imagine dealing with that when your too young to even understand whats wrong.
Its been gone though since then and im pretty sure it wont be comming back…
good luck and feel better,
you dont need medication,
cognitive therapy worked wonders on me=)
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