|  | Mental Health | Anxiety Disorders

Reasons for Anxiety Attacks

Anxiety attacks are also called panic attacks and refer to short-term feelings of intense fear and panic. People who have anxiety attacks may only have one during a lifetime, or may experience the attacks with regularity, depending on the cause of the attack. Although some anxiety attacks come without warning, most are triggered by an event or experience.

  1. Heredity

    • A family history of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders can be passed on through genetics.

    Hormonal Issues

    • Anxiety attacks may be a result of changes in hormones that cause chemical imbalances in the brain after pregnancy or during menopause.

    Daily Stress

    • Worries over problems at work, family issues or finances can compound over time to cause anxiety attacks.

    Mental Disorders

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, anxiety attacks may be complications of depression and generalized anxiety disorder.

    PTSD

    • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can result after witnessing or being in the middle of a traumatic experience, such as an auto accident, sexual assault, a terrorist attack or military duty, and can cause anxiety attacks.

    OCD

    • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) may be a reason for having anxiety attacks, especially if the affected person is prevented from carrying out his ritualistic behaviors.

    Phobias

    • Exposure to a trigger of phobias, such as spiders, heights and airplane flights, can be a reason for anxiety attacks.

Anxiety Disorders - Related Articles