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What are the causes of anxiety in women over 50?

Women in general are more likely to have anxiety disorders. The reasons are not entirely clear. But biology, psychology and societal norms all play a role. And older adults experience anxious thoughts as a result of many emotional (loss of friends) and physical factors (chronic conditions). The combination puts women over 50 at risk.

  1. Panic Disorder

    • About 3.5 percent of the population suffers from panic disorder, and two thirds of these sufferers are women, according to the book, "10 Simple Solutions to Panic." Additionally, women tend to experience panic more often and more intensely than men. The causes can be genetics, hormones, poor diet, stress and the aging process.

    Hormonal Imbalance

    • Anxiety is a common symptom of hormonal imbalance in all females, according to the website Women to Women. Anxiety can be the first symptom of perimenopause, the years before a woman becomes menopausal. Plummeting progesterone levels can increase panic and worry during premenstrual, perimenopausal and menopausal periods.

    Nutrition

    • As women age, their nutritional needs change. If your diet is out of balance, this can lead to deficiencies that can cause stress and anxiety. Anxietypanic.com. recommends eating lots of fruits and vegetables, olive oil, and omega-3 fatty acids, for example, and staying away from foods that can trigger panic, such as those high in caffeine (coffee and chocolate), salt, refined sugars and foods you may be allergic to according to.

    Stress

    • Around age 50, women's stress may increase due to "empty nest syndrome," declining health, hormonal issues, marital problems and more. Stress leads to increased production of cortisol, the "stress hormone," which can cause insomnia, weight gain and anxiety. Yoga, restful sleep and vacations are some ways to reduce stress.

    Growing Older

    • Growing older is stressful, and for women, since there is tremendous pressure to "look young." Less activity, increased pain, chronic conditions like osteoporosis, impaired cognitive abilities and losses like divorce or death of friends or family members all heighten the anxiety women feel.

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