Anxiety Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview, Media Influences, and Age-Related Trends

Excessive worry and anxiety in reaction to a range of events characterise anxiety disorders, a significant public health issue that impacts individuals of all ages. Comprehending the complex traits associated with anxiety, such as its connection with media and distinct effects on different age groups, is essential for developing comprehensive strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and therapy.  This paper provides an extensive overview of anxiety, exploring its definitions, diagnosis, and treatments. The information gathered on anxiety disorders is taken from official guidelines, medical journals, and academic research, all of which are conducted from between 2003 and 2023. This review consists of information that contained relevant topics, which are causes, treatment, definition, age groups, and effects from media. Since anxiety disorders are subjective in nature and may trigger symptoms that are mistaken with physical conditions, they are difficult to diagnose. Classification is done using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), however there are still issues with correctly diagnosing and treating anxiety.

One important topic covered in this paper is the effect of media on anxiety, particularly how social media, television, and journalism affect people’s mental health. Studies show that more social media use is linked to increased symptoms of anxiety, especially in emerging adults. Similarly, longer television viewing is associated with a higher rate of anxiety and depression among teenagers. Psychological distress can also be worsened by unpleasant events, like the COVID-19 pandemic being covered by the media.

The prevalence and consequences of anxiety differ among age groups. Anxiety disorders are prevalent in children and adolescents and frequently remain untreated, hindering their social and intellectual growth. In order to effectively manage anxiety in younger populations, psychological treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy are essential. On the other hand, anxiety in adults and the elderly is becoming increasingly recognised, with comorbid depressive disorders and specific phobias being more common in older people. The underestimation of anxiety symptoms in the elderly highlights the need for more specialized interventions and increased awareness.