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Anxiety State Vs. Anxiety Trait

Anxiety state and anxiety trait are terms that are often used in the mental health industry. Many people, however, have never been told exactly what these terms mean or what the difference is between them. Following are some facts that will clarify this issue.

  1. Anxiety State

    • Anxiety state refers to being nervous or anxious when faced with an immediate danger or stressful situation. Being in an anxiety state is a temporary condition.

    Anxiety Trait

    • Anxiety trait refers to how likely a person is to experience anxiety in a given situation. In her book "The Neuropsychology of the Brain," Joan Borod defines anxiety trait as an individual's "predisposition to worry."

    Anxiey Disorders

    • Most people who suffer from anxiety disorders do not distinguish between their anxiety states and anxiety traits. These terms hold little to no meaning for a person who suffers from an anxiety disorder.

    Influences

    • Both anxiety states and anxiety traits are affected by an individual's coping skills and support system.

    Stressful Situations

    • Different individuals will react differently to an identical stressful situation based in part on their anxiety trait.

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