In a review of reviews published in Brain and Behavior in 2016, University of Cambridge researchers examined 48 systematic reviews. The global prevalence of anxiety disorders was about 4%, and women were affected almost twice as often as men. People under 35 were affected most.
Why it matters
Anxiety is not just “sensitivity”. It can get in the way of sleep, work and relationships, and it often occurs together with depression. As we wrote in our articles on depression and PMDD, periods of hormonal change can increase vulnerability.
What this means for you
- Constant worry, tension or panic attacks are treatable.
- Effective options include psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioural therapy, and medication if needed.
- Exercise and enough sleep help, but they don’t replace treatment when anxiety is severe.
Sources
- Remes O., Brayne C., van der Linde R., Lafortune L. (2016). A systematic review of reviews on the prevalence of anxiety disorders in adult populations. Brain and Behavior. doi:10.1002/brb3.497