Anxiety

In this comprehensive exploration of anxiety, we delve into its evolutionary origins, common types of anxiety disorders, and their symptoms. We examine current statistics on anxiety's prevalence across different populations and provide insights into the neurobiology behind this universal human experience. This episode offers a deep understanding of anxiety, from its adaptive functions to its potential to become a disorder, providing listeners with valuable knowledge about this critical aspect of mental health

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:00):
Understanding anxiety from evolution to modern life. Anxiety is a
complex and multifaceted emotional state that has been an integral
part of human experience throughout our evolutionary history. At its core,
anxiety is a natural response to perceive threats or uncertainties

(00:21):
in our environment. It serves as a crucial survival mechanism,
alerting us to potential dangers and preparing our bodies and
minds to face challenges. However, in the modern world, where
the threats we face are often more psychological than physical,
anxiety can become a double edged sword, at times protective

(00:43):
but also potentially debilitating when it grows out of proportion
to actual risks. The roots of anxiety can be traced
back to our earliest ancestors, who faced constant physical threats
in their environment. Those who were more vigilant and quick
to respond to potential dangers were more likely to survive

(01:04):
and pass on their genes. This evolutionary advantage has been
hard wired into our nervous systems, manifesting as the familiar
sensations of increased heart rate, heightened awareness, and the urge
to either confront a threat or flee from it. The
classic fight or flight response. In our contemporary society, this

(01:30):
ancient survival mechanism still plays a vital role. It helps
us stay alert while driving, motivates us to prepare for
important events, and keeps us cautious in potentially dangerous situations.
Anxiety in its adaptive form can enhance performance and decision

(01:50):
making by focusing our attention and energy on important tasks
or problems that need to be addressed. However, the complexity
of modern life has introduced a host of new triggers
for anxiety that our evolutionary responses are not always well
equipped to handle. The constant barrage of information, social pressures,

(02:14):
economic uncertainties, and global concerns can activate our anxiety responses
in ways that are not always helpful. When anxiety becomes excessive, persistent,
and interferes with daily functioning, it crosses the threshold from
a normal adaptive response to a potential disorder. The transition

(02:36):
from normal anxiety to an anxiety disorder is not always
clear cut. It often involves a gradual intensification of worry, fear,
or unease that begins to impact various aspects of a
person's life. This could manifest as difficulty concentrating at work,
avoiding social situations, experiencing physical symptoms like trembling or sweating

(02:59):
in nona threatening situations, or feeling a constant sense of
impending doom. Understanding when anxiety becomes problematic requires considering several factors. Frequency, intensity,
and duration of anxiety symptoms are key indicators. While it's
normal to feel anxious before a job interview or when

(03:20):
facing a significant life change, experiencing intense anxiety on a
daily basis for months on end is not typical. The
degree to which anxiety interferes with daily activities is another
crucial factor. If worry or fear prevents someone from engaging
in normal activities like going to work, maintaining relationships, or

(03:44):
pursuing hobbies, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. It's also
important to consider the context of anxiety. Some situations warrant
a higher level of anxiety than others. For instance, feeling
nervous about giving a public speech is quite common and
not necessarily indicative of a disorder. However, experiencing panic attacks

(04:08):
at the mere thought of social interaction might suggest social
anxiety disorder. The subjective experience of the individual is also paramount.
Two people might experience similar levels of anxiety in response
to a situation, but one might find it manageable while
the other finds it overwhelming. This subjective element underscores the

(04:32):
importance of professional assessment in diagnosing anxiety disorders. As we
delve deeper into the world of anxiety, it becomes clear
that it's not a monolithic experience. Anxiety manifests in various forms,
each with its own set of characteristics and challenges. Understanding

(04:54):
these different types of anxiety disorders is crucial for proper
diagnosis and dead treatment. Generalized anxiety disorder GAD is one
of the most common anxiety disorders. Individuals with GAD experience
persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, often

(05:15):
without a specific trigger. This worry is often disproportionate to
the actual situation and difficult to control. People with GAD
might find themselves constantly anticipating disaster, excessively worrying about health, money, family,
or work, even when there is little or no reason

(05:35):
to worry. The anxiety is often accompanied by physical symptoms
such as restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia is characterized
by intense fear of social situations and interactions. People with

(05:58):
this disorder often worry excessively about being judged, embarrassed, or
humiliated in social settings. This can lead to avoidance of
social situations, which can significantly impact personal and professional relationships.
The fear can be so intense that it interferes with
daily activities, such as going to work, school, or even

(06:21):
running errands. Physical symptoms like blushing, sweating, trembling, or having
difficulty speaking are common in social situations. Panic disorder is
another prevalent form of anxiety disorder. It's characterized by recurrent,
unexpected panic attacks, sudden surges of intense fear or discomfort

(06:45):
that pique within minutes. These attacks can include physical symptoms
such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and
a feeling of impending doom or loss of control. What
sets panic disorder apart is the persistent worry about having

(07:06):
future panic attacks and the behavioral changes made to avoid
situations where attacks might occur. Specific phobias are intense, irrational
fears of specific objects or situations. Common phobias include fear
of heights, flying, certain animals. Or medical procedures. While many

(07:29):
people have mild fears of these things, a phobia is
diagnosed when the fear is excessive and interferes with daily life.
For instance, a fear of flying that prevents someone from
taking necessary business trips or visiting family would be considered
a phobia. Agoraphobia, often misunderstood as simply a fear of

(07:51):
open spaces, is actually a more complex condition. It involves
anxiety about being in places or situations where escape might
be difficult or help might not be available in the
event of a panic attack. This can include fear of
using public transportation, being in open or enclosed spaces, standing

(08:12):
in line, or being in a crowd. In severe cases,
people with agrophobia may become housebound. Separation anxiety disorder, while
more commonly associated with children, can also affect adults. It
involves excessive fear or anxiety about separation from those to

(08:33):
whom an individual is attached. In children, this might manifest
as extreme distress when separated from parents. In adults, it
could involve excessive worry about harm coming to loved ones
or difficulty being alone. Obsessive compulsive disorder OCD, while sometimes

(08:53):
classified separately, shares many features with anxiety disorders. OCD is
character arised by recurrent intrusive thoughts, obsessions, and repetitive behaviors
or mental acts compulsions that the individual feels driven to
perform in response to the obsessions. Common obsessions include fears

(09:16):
of contamination, need for symmetry, or intrusive, violent, or sexual thoughts.
Compulsions might involve excessive cleaning, checking, or arranging. Post traumatic
stress disorder PTSD, like OCD, is sometimes classified separately, but
is closely related to anxiety disorders. PTSD can develop after

(09:39):
exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms include intrusive memories of
the trauma, avoidance of reminders, negative changes in thinking and mood,
and changes in physical and emotional reactions. While not all
individuals exposed to trauma develop PTSD, those who do often

(09:59):
experience in significant anxiety and distress. Understanding these different types
of anxiety disorders is crucial for several reasons. First, it
helps individuals recognize their experiences and seek appropriate help. Many
people suffer from anxiety disorders without realizing that their symptoms

(10:21):
are part of a recognized condition that can be treated. Second,
different anxiety disorders may require different treatment. Approaches. While there
are commonalities in treatment across anxiety disorders, such as cognitive
behavioral therapy and certain medications, the specific techniques and focus

(10:42):
may vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder. Moreover,
anxiety disorders often co occur with each other or with
other mental health conditions, such as depression. Recognizing the specific
type of anxiety disorder can help in EYDA, identifying these
co occurring conditions, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan. As

(11:06):
we explore the landscape of anxiety disorders, it's important to
delve into the common symptoms that characterize these conditions. Anxiety
manifests in various ways, affecting not just our thoughts and emotions,
but also our bodies and behaviors. Understanding these symptoms is

(11:27):
crucial for recognizing anxiety in ourselves and others, and for
seeking appropriate help. The physical symptoms of anxiety are often
the most immediately noticeable. When anxiety strikes, our bodies go
into a state of heightened alertness, activating the sympathetic nervous
system our fight or flight response. This can lead to

(11:50):
a rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations as the body pumps
more blood to prepare for action. Many people describe feeling
like their heart is racing or pounding in their chest.
Breathing changes are another common physical symptom. Anxiety often leads
to rapid, shallow breathing, or a feeling of breathlessness. Some

(12:15):
people may experience a sense of choking or tightness in
the chest. These breathing changes can sometimes escalate into hyperventilation,
which can cause dizziness, light headedness, or a feeling of unreality.
Muscle tension is a hallmark of anxiety. This can manifest
as general stiffness throughout the body, or as tension in

(12:38):
specific areas like the jaw, neck, or shoulders. Some people
may experience trembling or shaking, particularly in the hands. This
muscle tension can lead to aches and pains, and over time,
can contribute to chronic pain conditions. Digestive symptoms are also
common in anxiety. Many people experience butterflies in their stomach, nausea,

(13:02):
or general stomach discomfort. Some may have changes in appetite,
either eating more or less than usual. In more severe cases,
anxiety can lead to diarrhea or frequent urination as the
body prepares for potential threats. Sweating is another physical response
to anxiety, particularly in the palms, feet, or armpits. This

(13:25):
is part of the body's cooling system activated in preparation
for physical exertion. Some people may also experience hot flashes
or chills. Sleep disturbances are frequently reported by those with anxiety.
This can include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless,

(13:45):
unrefreshing sleep. Nightmares or vivid dreams are also common. The
relationship between anxiety and sleep is often bi directional. Anxiety
can cause sleep problems, and lack of sleep can exacerbate anxiety.
On the emotional and cognitive front, anxiety symptoms can be

(14:07):
equally intense. Excessive worry is perhaps the most characteristic emotional
symptom of anxiety. This worry often feels uncontrollable and may
focus on various aspects of life, from minor concerns to
catastrophic scenarios. The worry may be constant or may come

(14:29):
in waves, but it typically feels more intense and persistent
than normal concern. Fear and a sense of dread are
also common emotional experiences in anxiety. This might be a
general sense of apprehension about the future or it might
be linked to specific situations or objects, as in the

(14:50):
case of phobias. Some people describe feeling constantly on edge
or unable to relax. Irritability is another emotional symptom that's
often overlooked. Anxiety can make people feel wound up and
more likely to be annoyed or angered by minor frustrations.
This irritability can strain relationships and contribute to social difficulties.

(15:15):
Difficulty concentrating is a cognitive symptom that many people with
anxiety experience. The mind may feel cluttered with worries, making
it hard to focus on tasks at hand. This can
affect work performance, academic achievement, and even basic daily activities.
Racing thoughts are another common cognitive symptom. People with anxiety

(15:39):
often report that their minds won't shut off, with thoughts
rapidly jumping from one worry to another. This can be
particularly problematic at night when trying to sleep. Memory problems
can also occur with anxiety. While anxiety doesn't typically cause
long term memory issues, the preoci patient with worries and

(16:01):
the difficulty concentrating can make it harder to form new
memories or recall information in the moment Indecisiveness is another
cognitive symptom of anxiety. The fear of making the wrong
choice can lead to prolonged deliberation over decisions both big
and small. This can be paralyzing in daily life and

(16:25):
can contribute to avoidance behaviors. It's important to note that
anxiety can also manifest in behavioral changes. Avoidance is a
common behavior seen in anxiety disorders. People may start avoiding situations, places,
or people that trigger their anxiety. While this provides short

(16:46):
term relief, it often reinforces the anxiety in the long run.
Seeking reassurance is another common behavior. People with anxiety may
frequently ask for reassurance from others about their worries. While
this can provide temporary relief, it can become a compulsive
behavior that reinforces anxiety over time. Procrastination is often linked

(17:11):
to anxiety. The fear of failure or perfectionism can lead
to putting off tasks, which in turn increases anxiety as
deadlines approach. It's crucial to understand that anxiety symptoms can
vary greatly from person to person. Some may experience primarily

(17:32):
physical symptoms, while others may be more affected emotionally. Or cognitively.
The intensity and frequency of symptoms can also vary widely.
Understanding this range of symptoms is key to recognizing anxiety
and seeking appropriate help when needed. As we consider the

(17:53):
impact of anxiety on individuals and society, it's important to
look at the statistics that illustrate its prevalence. Anxiety disorders
are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting
millions of people across different age groups, genders, and cultures.

(18:13):
In the United States, anxiety disorders affect approximately forty million
adults age eighteen and older, or nineteen point one per
cent of the population every year, according to the Anxiety
and Depression Association of America. This makes anxiety disorders the
most common mental illness in the US. However, despite their

(18:37):
prevalence and the availability of treatment, only about thirty six
point nine per cent of those suffering from anxiety disorders
receive treatment. When looking at specific types of anxiety disorders,
the numbers are equally striking. Generalized anxiety disorder GAD affects

(18:58):
six point eight million adults, or three point one percent
of the U S population in any given year. Women
are twice as likely to be affected as men, panic
disorder affects six million adults, or two point seven percent
of the U. S population. Women are also twice as
likely to be affected as men. Social anxiety disorder affects

(19:20):
fifteen million adults, or six point eight percent of the
US population. Unlike some other anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorder
affects men and women equally. It typically begins around age thirteen,
and thirty six percent of people with social anxiety disorder
report experiencing symptoms for ten or more years before seeking help.

(19:43):
Specific phobias affect nineteen million adults, or eight point seven
percent of the U. S population. Women are twice as
likely to be affected as men. Typically, symptoms start in
childhood or adolescence and continue into adulthood. Look looking at
anxiety disorders globally, the World Health Organization reports that three

(20:04):
point six percent of the global population suffers from anxiety disorders.
This translates to about two hundred and sixty four million
people worldwide. The prevalence varies by region, with some areas
reporting rates as high as five point three percent of
the population. Age is an important factor when considering anxiety statistics.

(20:25):
While anxiety disorders can affect people of all ages, they
often first appear in childhood or adolescence. Approximately seven percent
of children aged three seventeen years approximately four point four million,
have diagnosed anxiety. Moreover, about thirty percent of children and
adolescents will meet criteria for an anxiety disorder at some point,

(20:48):
although the prevalence of severe impairment is lower for older adults,
anxiety disorders are also common, affecting about ten twenty percent
of the older population. However, it's worth noting that anxiety
disorders in this age group are often underdiagnosed and undertreated,
possibly due to the misconception that anxiety is a normal

(21:12):
part of aging. Gender differences in anxiety disorders are significant.
Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be
diagnosed with an anxiety disorder in their lifetime. This difference
persists across different cultures and countries, suggesting that both biological
factors such as hormonal differences and societal factors such as

(21:35):
gender roles and expectations may play a role. It's also
important to consider the economic impact of anxiety disorders. The
Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that anxiety disorders
cost the US more than forty two billion dollars a year,
almost one third of the country's total mental health bill.

(21:58):
This includes direct costs of treatment and indirect costs such
as loss productivity and absenteeism from work. Comorbidity is another
crucial aspect to consider when looking at anxiety statistics. Anxiety
disorders often occur alongside other mental health conditions. For instance,

(22:21):
about half of those diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed
with an anxiety disorder. Substance use disorders also frequently co
occur with anxiety disorders, with some studies suggesting that up
to twenty percent of those with an anxiety disorder also
have a substance use disorder. While these statistics paint a

(22:42):
picture of widespread prevalence, it's important to note that anxiety
disorders are highly treatable. Effective treatments include psychotherapy, particularly cognitive
behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of both. However, the
treatment gap, the difference between those who need treatment and

(23:02):
those who receive it, remains significant. Barriers to treatment can
include lack of access to mental health services, stigma surrounding
mental health issues, and lack of awareness about available treatments.
Understanding the science behind anxiety provides crucial insights into why
we experience this emotion and how it can sometimes become problematic.

(23:28):
At its core, anxiety is a complex interplay between our brain, body,
and environment, involving various neurological and physiological processes. The amygdala,
a small almond shaped structure deep in the brain, plays
a central role in processing emotions, including fear and anxiety.

(23:51):
When we encounter a potentially threatening situation, the amygdala acts
as an alarm system, quickly processing sensory information and initiating
the body's stress response. This rapid response occurs before the cortex,
the thinking part of our brain, has had time to
fully process the situation. This is why we might feel

(24:14):
anxious or scared before we've had time to rationally assess
a situation. The hippocampus, another key brain structure involved in anxiety,
plays a crucial role in memory formation and emotional regulation.
It helps contextualize our experiences, including fearful or anxiety provoking ones.

(24:35):
Research has shown that chronic stress and anxiety can actually
lead to a reduction in the size of the hippocampus,
which may contribute to the persistence of anxiety disorders. The
prefrontal cortex, the most devolved part of our brain is
responsible for executive functions such as planning, decision making, and

(24:58):
impulse control. It also plays a role in regulating our
emotional responses, including anxiety. In individuals with anxiety disorders, there's
often a disconnect between the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala,
leading to difficulty in controlling anxious thoughts and feelings. When

(25:19):
anxiety is triggered, a cascade of physiological responses occurs, largely
mediated by the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system,
often referred to as the fight or flight system, becomes activated.
This leads to the release of stress hormones, primarily adrenaline

(25:39):
and cortisol, from the adrenal glands. Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine,
is responsible for the immediate physical symptoms of anxiety. It
causes increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and the redirection of
blood flow to major muscle groups, preparing the body for action.
This this is why we might feel our heart racing or

(26:02):
are palm sweating when we're anxious. Cortisol, often called the
stress hormone, has a slower onset but longer lasting effects.
It helps to maintain the body's heightened state of alertness
increases blood sugar levels to provide energy and suppresses non
essential bodily functions like digestion and reproduction. While this response

(26:25):
is adaptive in the short term, chronic elevation of cortisol
due to persistent anxiety can have detrimental effects on physical
and mental health. The neurotransmitter systems in our brain also
play a significant role in anxiety. Gamma aminobyic acid GABBA
is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, helping to

(26:49):
calm neural activity. Many anti anxiety medications work by enhancing
the effects of GABA. Serotonin, often associated with mood regulation,
also plays a role in anxiety. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs,
commonly used to treat depression, are also effective in treating

(27:11):
various anxiety disorders. Norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter, is involved in arousal
and alertness. In anxiety disorders, there may be an overactivity
of the neuropinephrine system, contributing to feelings of restlessness and hypervigilance.
Recent research has also highlighted the role of the gut

(27:32):
brain axis in anxiety. The gut contains millions of neurons
and produces many of the same neurotransmitters found in the brain.
There is growing evidence that the gut microbiome can influence
mood and anxiety levels, opening up new avenues for understanding

(27:53):
and potentially treating anxiety disorders. Genetics also play a role
in anxietyiety. While there isn't a single anxiety gene, research
suggests that various genes involved in neurotransmitter systems and stress
responses can influence an individual's susceptibility to anxiety disorders. However,

(28:16):
it's important to note that having a genetic predisposition doesn't
necessarily mean one will develop an anxiety disorder. Environmental factors
and life experiences interact with genetic factors in complex ways
to influence the development of anxiety disorders. Understanding the neurobiology

(28:38):
of anxiety has important implications for treatment. For instance, cognitive
behavioral therapy CBT, one of the most effective treatments for
anxiety disorders, works in part by strengthening the prefrontal cortex's
ability to regulate the amygdala's fear response. Over time, this

(29:00):
can lead to lasting changes in brain function and structure,
a process known as neuroplasticity. Medications used to treat anxiety
disorders often target specific neurotransmitter systems. For example, benzodiazepines enhance
the effect of GABBA, while SSRIs increase the availability of

(29:21):
serotonin in the brain. Understanding the mechanisms of these medications
can help in developing more targeted and effective treatments with
fewer side effects. Emerging treatments for anxiety are also being
informed by our growing understanding of its neurobiology. For instance,
transcranial magnetic stimulation TMS, which uses magnetic fields to stimulate

(29:47):
specific areas of the brain, has shown promise in treating
anxiety disorders by targeting the circuits involved in emotion regulation.
While the science of anxiety has come along way, there's
still much to learn. Ongoing research is exploring the complex
interactions between genes, environment, and brain function in anxiety disorders.

(30:14):
This research holds the promise of more personalized and effective
treatments in the future. As we delve deeper into the
complexities of anxiety, it becomes clear that this universal human
experience is far more than just a feeling of worry
or fear. It's an intricate interplay of evolutionary adaptations, neurobiological processes,

(30:38):
and environmental influences. Understanding anxiety in all its facets, from
its evolutionary roots to its modern manifestations, from its varied
symptoms to its prevalence in different populations, and from its
underlying neurobiology to its impact on daily life is crucial
for several reasons. Fly This comprehensive understanding helps to destigmatize

(31:05):
anxiety disorders. By recognizing anxiety as a natural human response
that can sometimes become excessive or maladaptive, we can foster
greater empathy and support for those struggling with anxiety disorders.
This understanding also emphasizes that anxiety disorders are real, diagnosable

(31:27):
conditions that require and deserve proper treatment, not character flaws
or signs of weakness. Secondly, a thorough grasp of anxiety
in all its forms aids in early recognition and intervention.
When individuals, families, and health care providers are aware of
the various ways anxiety can manifest physically, emotionally, and cognitively,

(31:52):
they are better equipped to identify potential problems early on.
Early intervention can prevent the escalation of symptoms and improve
long term outcomes. Thirdly, this knowledge informs the development of
more effective treatments. As we learn more about the neurobiological

(32:13):
underpinnings of anxiety, we can develop more targeted interventions, whether
they be pharmacological, psychological, or a combination of both. Understanding
the different types of anxiety disorders also allows for more
personalized treatment approaches, recognizing that what works for one individual

(32:35):
or one type of anxiety disorder may not be as
effective for another. Moreover, understanding anxiety in its broader context,
its prevalence, its economic impact, its relationship with other mental
health conditions underscores the importance of addressing anxiety at a
societal level. This can inform public health policies, workplace practice,

(33:00):
and educational approaches to create environments that are more conducive
to mental well being. For individuals struggling with anxiety, this
comprehensive understanding can be empowering. It provides a framework for
making sense of their experiences, validates their struggles, and offers

(33:20):
hope for effective management and treatment. It also highlights the
importance of self care strategies and lifestyle factors in managing anxiety,
from regular exercise and adequate sleep to mindfulness practices and
stress reduction techniques At the same time, This deep dive

(33:43):
into anxiety serves as a reminder of the complexity of
human emotions and experiences. While we've made significant strides in
understanding and treating anxiety, there's still much to learn. Each
individual's experience of anxiety is unique, shaped by their personal history, biology,

(34:04):
and circumstances. This underscores the importance of a holistic, patient
centered approach to mental health care. As we continue to
advance our understanding of anxiety, it's crucial to maintain a
balance between recognizing the very real challenges posed by anxiety
disorders and acknowledging the adaptive role of anxiety in human experience.

(34:29):
Anxiety in its non pathological form can motivate us, keep
us safe, and even enhance performance in certain situations. The
goal is not to eliminate anxiety entirely, but to keep
it within manageable levels where it serves its evolutionary purpose
without overwhelming our daily lives. Looking to the future, the

(34:53):
field of anxiety research and treatment continues to evolve. Emerging
technologygies like virtual reality are being explored for their potential
in exposure therapy for anxiety disorders. Advances in neuroimaging are
providing ever more detailed insights into the brain processes underlying anxiety.

(35:17):
Genetic researches uncovering new links between our DNA and susceptibility
to anxiety disorders, potentially paving the way for more personalized
treatment approaches. At the same time, there's growing recognition of
the role of societal factors in anxiety. The pace of
modern life, the pressures of social media, economic uncertainties, and

(35:42):
global challenges like climate change all contribute to what some
have called an age of anxiety. Addressing these broader societal
issues may be just as important as developing new treatments
in our efforts to reduce the burden of anxiety disorders.
In conclusion, anxiety is a fundamental aspect of the human experience,

(36:07):
deeply rooted in our evolutionary past, yet profoundly relevant to
our modern lives. It's a complex phenomenon that touches on neurobiology, psychology,
and social dynamics. By continuing to deepen our understanding of
anxiety in all its forms, we can work towards a
future where anxiety is better understood, more effectively managed, and

(36:32):
where those struggling with anxiety disorders can find the support
and treatment they need to lead fulfilling lives. As we
face the challenges of an increasingly complex world, this understanding
of anxiety will be more important than ever in promoting
individual and collective mental health and well being. Thank you

(36:52):
for listening to this in depth exploration of anxiety. We
hope you found it informative and insightful. If you enjoyed
this content, please don't forget to subscribe for more episodes
on mental health and well being. This episode was brought
to you by Quiet Please Podcast Networks, your source for
thoughtful discussions on the human mind. Until next time, take

(37:16):
care and stay mindful.