Is Anxiety Genetic?

• If other members of your family are frequently stressed out or filled with anxiety – and you are too – you might wonder if you have inherited some of these traits. Well, it’s possible that you may have.
• Unlike certain physical traits such as eye or hair colour, there does not appear to be an “anxiety gene” but rather combinations of gene variants can make a person more prone to being anxious.
• Just because a person is genetically predisposed to anxiety, however, does not mean that they will develop an anxiety disorder.
• While there is nothing we can do to change our DNA, there is a lot we can do to reduce or eliminate anxiety in our lives.

Are you an anxious person? Or are you someone who can easily roll with the punches? If other members of your family are frequently stressed out or filled with anxiety – and you are too – you might wonder if you have inherited some of these traits. Well, it’s possible that you may have.

Genetics do play a role in whether or not someone has an anxiety disorder – but the good news is that, according to the most recent research – that role is small. Only about 10% in fact.

The other 90% of anxiety comes from external factors such environment and behaviour.

GENETIC AND BIOLOGICAL CAUSES OF ANXIETY

Unlike certain physical traits such as eye or hair colour, there does not appear to be an “anxiety gene” but rather combinations of gene variants can make a person more prone to being anxious. Mental illnesses such as panic disorder or anxiety disorder can be passed from parent to child.

Imbalances in brain chemistry frequently accompany such disorders and in some cases, can be treated through prescription medication which is designed to regulate brain chemistry.

Just because a person is genetically predisposed to anxiety, however, does not mean that they will develop an anxiety disorder. As stated earlier, anxiety is much more likely to be triggered by environmental and behavioural factors.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND BEHAVIOURAL CAUSES OF ANXIETY

Everyday life is filled with things that can cause anxiety including:

• Traumatic events (including abuse) which can lead to PTSD or other mental disorders.
• Everyday stress which can affect brain chemistry.
• Upbringing – it is possible to learn anxiety by watching the way other family members react to situations.
• Life experiences – for example, if you were bullied as a child, you may have learned to be anxious in social situations.
• Change – for example, if you suddenly find yourself in the midst of a divorce, starting a new job or moving to a new city, the feeling of unfamiliarity can cause anxiety.
• Lifestyle habits – finally it is important to note that some anxiety can be self-inflicted. If you have poor eating habits or do not exercise, or if you consume too much caffeine or alcohol, then the body may not produce enough stress coping hormones. 

WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT ANXIETY?

While there is nothing we can do to change our DNA, there is a lot we can do to reduce or eliminate anxiety in our lives. If anxiety is severe or comes on suddenly, it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor to rule out any medical causes.

Reducing unhealthy stress in your life, or talking with a trained counselor or therapist can help you to get at the root of your anxiety issues. They will often give you exercises such as breathing or meditation techniques that can help to calm you.

Finally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important. By being sure to eat mainly healthy foods, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, exercise and keep the caffeine and alcohol to a minimum, it can help to improve brain function and combat anxiety.