Ten Things That Can Trigger Your Anxiety

Ten Things That Can Trigger Your Anxiety Anxiety is a term used to describe several different psychological disorders that cause fear, worry, apprehension and nervousness. According to Anxiety.org, anxiety disorders affect more than eighteen percent of the United States’ population and are the most common psychological disorder. There are numerous types of anxiety disorders, including separation anxiety, phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorders, PTSD and generalized anxiety disorders. Everyone will experience anxiety sometime during their life.

Anxiety is a natural response to help keep you safe. An anxiety disorder, on the other hand, occurs when your anxiety or fear becomes so extreme that impairs your ability to function at work, in relationships or at school. Let's take a look at some of the most common things that can trigger your anxiety.

1. Alcohol abuse – Those suffering from social anxiety disorder and other anxiety disorders are at an increased risk of abusing alcohol. Sufferers often turn to alcohol to help them cope with it. In the beginning, a drink may help them cope with their anxiety; however, over time, the sufferer needs an increasing amount of alcohol to help them cope.

2. Diet – There are certain foods that can improve your mood. Foods can act as temporary stimulants or depressants. Stimulants like caffeine, sugar and alcohol can increase and trigger an anxiety attack. Other foods like turkey, beef, whole wheat, salmon and fermented foods can help prevent an anxiety attack. Turkey contains tryptophan which can help increase serotonin production. Beef can increase your B vitamins which can help prevent anxiety. Whole wheat and other complex carbohydrates help to regulate glucose levels. Salmon provides the body with omega 3 fatty acids to fight inflammation and improve serotonin production. Finally, fermented foods provide the body with protein to help stimulate the production of dopamine and norepinephrine.

3. Financial problems – Financial problems, such as losing your job, a medical emergency or a foreclosure, can trigger anxiety. With financial problems, you worry about the future and feel as if you have no control over what is happening, resulting in increased anxiety.

4. Illegal drugs – Those suffering from anxiety may also turn to illegal drugs. The use of illegal drugs can also contribute to an increased incidence of anxiety. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that sufferers often self-medicate using these drugs to relieve their anxiety; however, it only makes the anxiety worse.

5. Illness – When you suffer from an anxiety disorder, you are at an increased risk of developing a chronic disease. Those suffering from anxiety are at an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders, including abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. Other illnesses linked to an anxiety disorder include heart disease and respiratory issues. These illnesses occur when stress hormones remain high in the body. Chronic stress causes systemic inflammation, which can lead to decreased immunity and a higher risk of chronic illnesses.

6. Low oxygen levels – Decreased oxygen caused by respiratory difficulties or high-altitude can trigger an anxiety attack. When oxygen levels fall, your brain will not receive the oxygenated blood that it needs to produce neurotransmitters. When the brain does not receive enough oxygen, you are at an increased risk of experiencing anxiety. You can help combat this effect by practicing deep breathing exercises.

7. Relationship woes – Relationship troubles can cause you to suffer from chronic stress and anxiety. If you are in a troubled relationship, you can experience anxiety due to the uncertainty of your relationship, a loss of trust and incessant fighting.

8. Stress – Anxiety is a reaction to stressors in your life. In both good times and in bad, people can experience stress. When stress becomes chronic, it can lead to a number of anxiety disorders. Stress relief through the use of supplements, physical activity and stress relief techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, journaling and prayer, can help to relieve stress and minimize the risk of an anxiety disorder.

9. Sugar – When you consume sugar, your glucose levels will spike and then crash. In addition to this, sugar can increase inflammation in the body and decrease immunity. Consuming too much sugar can lead to fatigue, concentration difficulties and increased anxiety.

10. Trauma – Traumatic events, such as violent crimes, abuse, natural disasters and war, can cause post-traumatic stress disorder. Following a traumatic event, images and memories of the event can occur, leading to anxiety. Those suffering from PTSD may have recurrent nightmares or flashbacks that can trigger anxiety.

There are many things that can trigger anxiety, including substance abuse, too much sugar, relationship problems and illness. Learning what your triggers are and how to avoid them is the first step towards avoiding an anxiety attack. In addition to this, stress relief techniques, a nutritious diet and supplementation can also help you prevent or decrease anxiety levels.