Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health concerns in the country, affecting about 3.1 percent of all American adults. To put that in perspective, that’s 6.8 million people we’re talking about. They’re twice as likely to occur in women versus men and often diagnosed with other mental health conditions, such as depression.
The term “anxiety” is used colloquially as a catch-all to describe different conditions, including panic disorders, menopause anxiety, or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). A hallmark of anxiety is persistent nervousness, restlessness, or dread, according to the Mayo Clinic. These feelings can lead to rumination, trouble concentrating, and a wide range of somatic symptoms, such as having an increased heart rate, sweating, or feeling weak.
Scientists don’t know exactly what causes anxiety, but there are many effective treatment options available. Many patients opt for anti-anxiety medications, talk therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), or some combination of the two.
Although anxiety is incredibly common, experiencing it firsthand can be lonely, especially if you don’t understand the science behind it. In recent years, a number of exciting new books have shed light on why anxiety occurs and how people can mitigate their symptoms. These books about anxiety — including science-backed books, memoirs, and therapy workbooks — can help you or anyone your love learn more about this condition.