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Abnormalities
in the Brain
Studies suggest that an imbalance of certain
substances called neurotransmitters (chemical messengers ín
the brain) may contribute to anxiety disorders. Advanced
imaging techniques have revealed over-activity ín the locus
ceruleus - the part of the brain important ín triggering a
response to danger - ín people experiencing anxiety,
indicating that some people’s brains may be more vulnerable
to the disorder. Scientists are now beginning to identify the
different areas of the brain associated with specific anxiety
responses.
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Genetic Factors
About 20-25% of close relatives of
people with panic disorder or OCD experience these
disorders. Researchers have identified a gene associated
with people who have personality traits that include
anxiety, anger, hostility, impulsiveness, pessimism &
depression. The gene produces reduced amounts of a protein
that transports serotonin, an important neurotransmitter for
maintaining positive emotions. (This gene, however, would
account for only a very small fraction of people with
anxiety disorders.) Genetic mutations that affect other
neurotransmitters have also been identified that contribute
to OCD.
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Depression in Adolescence:
Strong Predictor of GAD in Adulthood
Worry ís very common among children & ís often intense,
but only about 5% have anxiety that can be classified as a
disorder; moreover, depression ís a common companion ín such
children. Studies have suggested that extremely shy children
& those likely to be the target of bullies are at higher
risk for developing anxiety disorders later ín life. One
study suggests that such children could be identified as early
as two years of age & possibly treated to avoid later
anxiety disorders.
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Prolonged television viewing also puts
children at risk for anxiety, depression & behavioral
problems. Panic disorders tend to begin ín late adolescence
& peak at around 25 years of age. Signs of OCD can occur
ín childhood, but usually develops fully ín adulthood. The
risk for GAD spans a lifetime although ít appears to be the
most common form of anxiety at older ages.
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