The truth is there’s no simple cause of what researchers call "generalised anxiety". Everyone is different. But there are some important factors that have been identified. They can generally be divided into biological and psychological causes.

Biological Causes: No single gene has been associated with generalised anxiety, however it does seem that some individuals may inherit greater vulnerability to anxiety disorders or mood disorders. Some people born with a particular ‘anxious’ type of temperament, may be more likely to develop an anxiety disorder later in life.

Psychological Causes: While our biology may make us vulnerable to experiencing anxiety, not all people with this vulnerability go on to develop problematic anxiety. A great deal depends on the lifestyle of that person, the types of life stressors they have encountered, and how they cope with such stressors.

This is where psychological counselling at Psychology Melbourne can be useful. Your psychologist can help you identity your type of anxiety and how your mind and body interact when faced with stressful life situations.

Studies have reported some individuals have a general vulnerability to develop anxiety or mood disorder. People born with a particular "anxious" type of temperament may be more likely to develop an anxiety disorder later in life.

When can Anxiety start to become a problem?

Although anxiety is a normal human response that we all experience in response to certain life events, it can become a significant problem when it starts to overwhelm and interfere with our everyday life, our relationships, work, or attending school. If this is the case, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Studies suggest 11 per cent of Australians have an anxiety disorder. It is the most common mental health problem in Australia.

Left untreated, anxiety disorders can lead to depression and an inability to function in normal life. Below is a list of some of the more common anxiety disorders: