People believe that their family or childhood experiences are anxiety causes but in fact research identifies that genetic factors also plays an important part. Evidence shows that some people have a predisposition to overreact to an imagined or real danger and are more sensitive to the symptoms of anxiety once they occur.
In addition anxiety- provoking life experiences may magnify any underlying vulnerability that a person has inherited. For example, frightening experiences or bullying may play a role. Also individuals may experience their first episodes of anxiety or panic attacks when they are being affected by other stresses such as illness or work stress. Interestingly panic attacks are first experienced when a person is a long way from home such as a holiday or work trip. Alcohol and illicit drugs and/or withdrawal from these substances may also trigger an attack.
Ongoing stress
If we experience stress over a long period of time, and are unable to reduce it or work through it, it tends to accumulate and does not automatically go away. This cumulative stress can put so much pressure on the mind and body that your body will go into automatic protection mode, resulting in high levels of anxiety. If the anxiety causes are not addressed and the stress is not decreased or managed, people can then often develop an Anxiety Disorder.
Adverse life events and major loss
Threats to our safety, the death of a loved one, breakup of a marriage or relationship, financial hardship and loss of a job are often short term contributors to precipitating high levels of anxiety or anxiety disorders.
Major life changes
Life changes of great significance such as moving country or interstate, changing jobs, having children or children leaving home, marriage or a new relationship can often be triggers to high levels of anxiety and panic attacks.