From the Guidelines
Approximately 20% to 30% of Americans are diagnosed with anxiety disorders, with a median age of onset of 11 years. Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents, with nearly 7% of youths worldwide having an anxiety disorder at any given time 1. The estimated lifetime prevalence in the United States is approximately 20% to 30%, with specific anxiety disorders among youths 13 to 18 years old having lifetime prevalence rates of 20% for specific phobia, 9% for social anxiety, 8% for separation anxiety, and 2% each for agoraphobia, panic, and generalized anxiety 1.
Key Points
- Anxiety disorders can begin in childhood and often decline beginning at approximately age 60 years 1
- Anxiety disorders greatly impair function in school, work, social settings, and personal relationships, and are often comorbid with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression and substance use disorders 1
- Screening for anxiety is not currently a routine preventive practice in clinical settings, but can be done quickly and efficiently using a brief screening tool 1
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy are initial treatments for most patients, whereas medications are usually secondary 1
Prevalence and Burden
The prevalence of anxiety disorders varies somewhat by demographic factors, with women being diagnosed at higher rates than men, and younger adults showing higher rates than older populations 1. The actual number of Americans experiencing anxiety may be higher due to underreporting and barriers to mental health care access. Anxiety disorders are thought to develop from a combination of genetic predisposition, brain chemistry, personality traits, and life experiences, particularly stressful or traumatic events.
Importance of Screening and Treatment
Despite the high prevalence and burden of anxiety disorders, only an estimated 20% of affected persons seek care for these conditions 1. The purpose of screening for anxiety is to increase detection of anxiety disorders, achieve earlier diagnosis, initiate appropriate treatment, and improve health, function, and well-being 1. Early detection and treatment of anxiety disorders are crucial to reduce morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life.
From the Research
Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders in Americans
- The estimated national prevalence of a persistent depressive or anxiety disorder was 4.7% 2.
- At follow-up, 59% of adults with probable major depression, dysthymia, panic disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder no longer met criteria for a disorder, while 41% still met the criteria 2.
- However, the studies do not provide a specific percentage of Americans diagnosed with anxiety disorders in general.
Anxiety Disorders and Treatment
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) often begins during adolescence or early adulthood and persists throughout the lifespan 3.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are effective in treating anxiety disorders, with higher doses of SSRIs associated with greater symptom improvement and likelihood of treatment response 4.
- SSRIs and SNRIs are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, including GAD, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder 5, 6, 4, 3.
Limitations of the Studies
- The studies do not provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence of anxiety disorders in Americans, but rather focus on specific aspects of anxiety disorders, such as treatment options and efficacy 5, 6, 4, 3.
- The study by 2 provides some insight into the prevalence of persistent depressive and anxiety disorders, but the data may not be representative of the entire American population.