At present it seems that anxiety is the most widespread evil that exists among people . There are those who get used to living in a constant state of anxiety, something that in the long term can cause serious physical and mental health problems . For this reason, it is necessary to know what anxiety is and also what are the long-term effects of living it chronically.

Anxiety develops from the natural fight or flight process. Anxiety used to tell us when a situation became dangerous, and it increased our abilities to fight or reduce danger by escaping. This need for a fight or flight response is generally not necessary for people today, but it still occurs when people get anxious about things like work, school, and family events.  The long-term effects of this anxiety can negatively affect various aspects of a person’s life.

Coping with anxiety differently

People deal with anxiety differently. Some focus on the anxiety-producing situation, but others have developed ways to effectively deal with and cope with their anxieties. 

For people who have learned to deal effectively with anxiety, it generally benefits them and prompts them to achieve their goals and move forward in life. On the other hand, the inability to cope with anxiety can have negative results.

When anxiety is not controlled

When a person can no longer control their anxiety and it has started to negatively affect their daily life, the long-term result could be an anxiety disorder.  Anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and panic disorder, require intensive long-term treatment to overcome negative effects and reduce symptoms.

Complications of having chronic anxiety

Long-term episodes with anxiety or anxiety disorders can cause a person to turn to unhealthy ways of coping. People who struggle with anxiety for long periods of time are at risk of developing substance abuse problems; smoking addictions ; and overeating, leading to weight problems and health problems.

Every time a person is faced with a stressful situation in which they experience anxiety, the hormone cortisol is released. When a person regularly experiences long-term anxiety, the release of cortisol will occur too often and will actually have a negative effect on a person’s memory .

Long-term anxiety problems, such as anxiety disorders , can put a person at higher risk for developing health problems. Possible health problems include insomnia;  digestive or intestinal problems; and damage to the kidneys, blood vessels, and heart.

What to keep in mind

Long-term battles with anxiety have a significant effect on the general life of the person they affect. In the long run, anxiety can complicate friendships, cause problems at work and career … it can increase a person’s feelings of isolation and lack of confidence.

Also, over time, anxiety can increase a person’s chances of developing depression.  50% of people who have anxiety also experience depression. Also, dealing with anxiety for a significant period of a person’s life can leave them contemplating or attempting suicide. The longer anxiety is left untreated and the more intense it becomes, the more likely a person will consider ending their life as the only way to overcome their anxiety . This is why it is so important that people with anxiety be treated as soon as possible.