Anxiety is common as we age
While they occur throughout the lifespan, there are important differences in anxiety disorders occurring in the older population. Recent studies have found that one in five older adults, ages 55 to 85 years, report significant symptoms of anxiety that require treatment.
Plus, aging adults are more susceptible to anxiety since they are at the phase of life where they experience weakening health conditions, financial concerns and loneliness.
Differences between anxiety and anxiety disorder
An anxiety disorder is a condition where people develop excessive levels of anxiety about certain objects, situations or experiences. Common symptoms of anxiety include the following emotional symptoms:
- Feelings of apprehension or dread
- Trouble concentrating coupled with short-term memory loss
- Anticipating the worst
- Irritability and anger
- Restlessness
- Over vigilance for signs of danger
- Feeling like your mind has gone blank
- Constant feeling of being overwhelmed
- Dramatic mood swings
- Common things that suddenly seem scary or frightening
- Feeling like things are unreal or dreamlike
- Overcome with a need to cry for no apparent reason
- Not feeling like yourself; detached from loved ones, emotionally numb
- Feeling like you are under pressure all the time
- Fearful of going crazy or of dying, or of impending doom
Treatment for anxiety
Generally, anxiety disorders are treated by a combination of medication and behavior therapy. These may include the use of relaxation techniques, psychotherapy and anti-anxiety medications. Certain antidepressants are very effective for treating anxiety without the risk of addiction or physical impairment. Very often, with effective treatment, individuals will find the can handle the challenges of everyday life.