Feeling anxious before an exam, interview, or important decision is normal. But when that feeling becomes constant, intense, and without apparent reason, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. This condition affects millions of people in Brazil and around the world, compromising well-being, professional performance, and social life. The good news: it is treatable, and you are not alone.
What Is an Anxiety Disorder?
Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive and persistent worry, accompanied by physical and emotional symptoms that interfere with daily life. Unlike “normal” anxiety — which arises from stressful situations and fades once they are resolved — the disorder lasts for weeks, months, or even years, often without a clear cause.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Brazil is one of the countries with the highest prevalence of anxiety in the world. This highlights the importance of discussing the topic, recognizing the signs, and knowing when to seek help.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms may vary but often include:
Emotional symptoms:
- Intense and constant worry
- Irritability
- Fear of common situations
- Feeling that something bad is going to happen
- Difficulty concentrating
Physical symptoms:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle tension
- Excessive sweating
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
During acute episodes, the person may experience chest pain, dizziness, tingling, and a feeling of faintness, sometimes mistaking it for a heart attack.
Who Is Most Affected?
Anxiety disorder can affect anyone, but some groups have higher incidence rates:
- Age: young adults (18 to 35 years old) show higher rates, although the disorder is also common in adolescence and later adulthood.
- Gender: studies show that women are almost twice as likely to develop anxiety as men.
- Lifestyle and profession: high-pressure jobs, long working hours, or frequent exposure to risky situations — such as in healthcare, education, or public safety — can increase risk.
- Associated conditions: chronic diseases, history of depression, and use of alcohol or tobacco raise the likelihood.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Although grouped under the same term, there are several forms of the disorder:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – excessive worry about everyday situations.
- Panic Disorder – sudden and intense fear episodes accompanied by physical symptoms.
- Specific Phobias – irrational fear of particular objects or situations.
- Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) – intense fear of social interactions.
- Agoraphobia – fear of places or situations where escape might be difficult.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – often associated with anxiety disorders.
Factors That Can Cause Anxiety
The development of anxiety is usually linked to a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors:
- Genetics: family history increases risk.
- Brain chemistry: imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine can influence the disorder.
- Traumatic events: losses, separations, violence, natural disasters.
- Lifestyle: lack of sleep, poor diet, excessive caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco use.
- Chronic stress: professional and financial pressures are common triggers.
Good habits to prevent or reduce anxiety
Some daily changes can help control symptoms and even prevent anxiety attacks:
- Engage in regular physical activity (walking, running, yoga, dancing)
- Establish a consistent sleep routine and avoid sudden schedule changes
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
- Make time for leisure and contact with nature
- Practice breathing techniques and meditation
- Maintain a balanced diet
How to Treat: Professionals and Therapies
Treating anxiety disorder may involve:
Psychotherapy:
A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most recommended, helping to identify and modify thought patterns that fuel anxiety.
Medical follow-up:
Psychiatrists may prescribe medications such as antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) or anxiolytics. Benzodiazepines should be used with caution due to the risk of dependence.
Lifestyle changes:
- Walk outdoors
- Reduce screen time
- Participate in group activities
- Take regular breaks during work
What to Do if You Think You Have Anxiety — or Know Someone Who Does
- Don’t ignore the symptoms: the sooner treatment begins, the greater the chances of control.
- Seek professional help: a psychologist or psychiatrist can make the correct diagnosis.
- In severe crises: seek emergency medical care to rule out other causes, such as cardiac problems.
- Emotional support: listen, offer empathy, and avoid judgment.
Recent Statistics on the Rise of Anxiety in Brazil
In recent years, Brazil has seen a significant increase in anxiety disorder cases. In 2024, a Covitel survey revealed that about 56 million Brazilians — equivalent to 26.8% of the population — lived with some degree of anxiety.
This represents a considerable jump compared to the 9.3% (around 18 million) recorded in 2017.
Additionally, Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS) reported 671,305 outpatient visits related to anxiety between January and October 2024 — a 14.3% increase compared to the previous year.
These figures reveal a clear worsening trend — highlighting the urgent need for stronger mental health policies and public initiatives.
Anxiety disorder is a common, serious, and treatable condition. Recognizing the signs, understanding its causes, and seeking help are essential steps to restoring quality of life. If you related to this content or thought of someone who might be going through it, share this article. A conversation can be the beginning of change.
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