Anxiety is defined as a physiological state, which is characterized by somatic, cognitive, emotional and behavioral components. In other words, it is a feeling of uneasiness and apprehension, especially about the future.

Anxiety has become a common daily phenomenon. We are always under some sort of pressure. There is pressure of deadlines, pressure to perform and pressure to be successful. All these combine to create a sense of insecurity. A prolonged insecure feeling generally gives rise to anxiety.

There has been extensive research on the possible treatments for anxiety. Most researchers and experts believe that not one, but a combination of many causes lead to such a mental state.

The most common cause of anxiety happens to be the past experience of a person. A troubled past can surely lead to anxiety in his present life. The individual will not only be apprehensive about his life but also the life of his near and dear ones.

Another group of researchers believe that anxiety is caused by genetic variations. They believe that the root of anxiety is in the genes of the individual. Some people are more prone to anxiety while others are not. Research is going on to find the exact relationship between anxiety and genes. There may indeed be some truth in this hypothesis. We inherit many traits of our personality and looks from our ancestors, through the genes. So, it is quite possible, that anxiety may also be such a trait, which is passed on from one generation to the other, through these genes.

Anxiety is not a disease; it’s just a condition of the mind. But prolonged anxiety may cause diseases and also depression. So, it is very important to handle anxiety in such a manner that it does not go out of proportion.

There are many treatments of anxiety, which are available today. The most common amongst them is the Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In CBT, a combination of cognitive and Behavioral therapies is used, to treat anxiety. In this therapy, the patient is actively involved in curing himself. The main aim of this therapy is to identify, understand and modify thinking and behavioral pattern of the patient.

Drugs are also frequently used to treat anxiety. Mostly drugs which fall under the category of anti-depressants are used to treat patients of anxiety. Drugs are used along with other modes of therapy, to derive maximum benefit.

The most effective way of fighting anxiety is relaxation. A person should always try to keep his mind relaxed by cultivating different hobbies and habits. They can be anything from listening to music, painting, relaxing with friends, cooking, or any other creative work.