How many people experience anxiety
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Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview
Global and National Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues worldwide. Globally, the current prevalence of anxiety disorders is estimated to be 7.3%, meaning that approximately 1 in 14 people are affected at any given time 3. In the United States, the prevalence is notably higher, with studies indicating that anxiety disorders affect more than 7% of adults 1. Additionally, it is estimated that 13 million people in the U.S. suffer from an anxiety disorder daily 2.
Lifetime Prevalence and Demographic Variations
The lifetime prevalence of anxiety disorders is substantial, with up to 33.7% of the population experiencing an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives 6. Certain demographic groups are more susceptible to anxiety disorders. Women, individuals under the age of 45, those who are separated or divorced, and people in lower socioeconomic groups have higher rates of anxiety 1.
Specific Populations and Anxiety
Young Adults and Social Anxiety
Social anxiety is particularly prevalent among young adults. A study involving 6,825 individuals aged 16-29 from seven countries found that more than 1 in 3 (36%) met the criteria for Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) 4. This indicates a significant concern for young adults globally, many of whom may not recognize their symptoms.
Older Adults
Anxiety disorders are also common among older adults. Approximately 15% of people aged 65 and over experience anxiety disorders, with phobic disorders being the most prevalent at 12% 9. This suggests that anxiety remains a significant issue across the lifespan.
Transgender Population
The transgender population experiences high rates of anxiety disorders, with prevalence rates ranging from 17% to 68% depending on the study 7. Specific phobias, social phobias, panic disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorders are particularly common in this group.
Economic and Social Impact
The economic burden of anxiety disorders is immense. In the United States alone, the annual cost of anxiety disorders exceeds $42 billion, with more than half of these expenses resulting from clinical care due to misdiagnosis, inadequate treatment, and emergency care 3. Anxiety disorders also lead to reduced productivity and increased absenteeism from work 3.
Conclusion
Anxiety disorders are a pervasive and significant mental health issue affecting millions of people globally. The prevalence varies across different demographic groups, with young adults, older adults, and the transgender population being particularly affected. The economic and social impacts of anxiety disorders are substantial, underscoring the need for effective recognition, treatment, and support systems to mitigate these effects.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
The epidemiology of anxiety disorders: the Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) experience.
Anxiety disorders affect more than 7% of adults in the United States, with higher rates in women, under age 45, those separated or divorced, and low socioeconomic groups.
Highly CitedSocial anxiety in young people: A prevalence study in seven countries
Social anxiety is significantly more prevalent than previously reported, with more than 1 in 3 (36%) young adults meeting the threshold criteria for Social Anxiety Disorder in seven diverse countries.
Observational Study
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedAnxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, with new treatments and improved awareness leading to increased communication among sufferers and improved treatment options for practitioners.
Epidemiology of anxiety disorders in the 21st century
Anxiety disorders affect up to 33.7% of the population and are highly comorbid with other mental disorders, resulting in significant underrecognition and undertreatment.
Highly CitedPrevalence of anxiety symptoms and disorders in the transgender population: A systematic review of the literature
High levels of anxiety symptoms and disorders are prevalent among transgender individuals, with social anxiety and panic attacks being particularly common.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedThe epidemiology of anxiety disorders: prevalence and societal costs.
Anxiety disorders affect 15.7 million Americans annually and 30 million people at some point in their lives, posing a high individual and social burden and straining the health care system.
Highly CitedHOW COMMON ARE THE ANXIETY DISORDERS IN OLD AGE?
Anxiety disorders are relatively common in people aged 65 and over, with phobic disorders being the most prevalent subclassification, and generalized anxiety often seen with other psychiatric syndromes.
Observational StudyHighly CitedAssessment of anxiety in older adults: current status.
Anxiety assessment in older adults requires considering age-related factors, assessment process, and multimethod techniques, with recommendations for clinical assessment and future research.
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