Differences in sex hormones may be a factor. Scientists know that estrogen interacts with serotonin—a neurotransmitter involved in regulating moods, sleep, and appetite—but they're just beginning to tease out the relationship.
Girls and women are also more likely than males to be victims of physical or mental abuse, a known risk factor for PTSD. Childhood abuse also seems to cause long-term changes in brain chemistry and structure that may predispose individuals to anxiety disorders.
While anxiety affects women in greater numbers than men, it's by no means strictly a female problem. At some point, one in five men will develop an anxiety disorder.
Coping with Anxiety and Phobias is a 48-page report edited by Michael J. Mufson, M.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. This report covers:
Up-to-date information on treatments, including medications, therapy, hypnosis, and exercise.
Easy-to-understand explanations of the many types of anxiety disorders, their symptoms, causes, and diagnosis.
Advice on making treatment work for you.
Source: Newswise
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