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Child Psychiatrist /Adult Psychiatrist

Writer's pictureVilash Reddy, MD

The Dangers of Anxiety: How It Can Lead to Suicide

Updated: Sep 8, 2023

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or debilitating, it can become a mental health disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year.


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There are many different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. GAD is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety that is difficult to control. Panic disorder is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear and anxiety that can lead to physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness. Social anxiety disorder is characterized by a fear of social situations that can lead to avoidance of social interactions. Specific phobias are characterized by a fear of a specific object or situation that can lead to avoidance of the feared object or situation.


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Source: Anxiety and Depression Association of America

Anxiety disorders can have a significant impact on a person's life. They can interfere with work, school, relationships, and overall quality of life. In some cases, anxiety disorders can lead to suicide.


Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and it is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 15-24. Anxiety disorders are a major risk factor for suicide. In fact, people with anxiety disorders are up to six times more likely to attempt suicide than people without anxiety disorders.


There are a number of reasons why anxiety can lead to suicide:

  • First, anxiety can make people feel hopeless and helpless.

  • Second, anxiety can make people feel isolated and alone.

  • Third, anxiety can make people feel like they're a burden to others.


There are a number of things that can be done to prevent suicide in people with anxiety. These include early identification and treatment of anxiety disorders, providing support and education to families and friends of people with anxiety, and reducing access to lethal means of suicide.


7 Tips on How to Deal with Anxiety


Mental health wellness is the state of being mentally healthy and well-functioning. It includes having a positive sense of self, being able to cope with stress, and having the ability to maintain healthy relationships.


There are a number of things that you can do to promote mental health wellness. These include:

  1. Getting enough sleep

  2. Eating a healthy diet

  3. Exercising regularly

  4. Spending time in nature

  5. Connecting with loved ones

  6. Practicing relaxation techniques

  7. Seeking professional help if needed

tips for anxiety

If you are struggling with anxiety or other mental health challenges, it is important to seek help. There are a number of resources available to you, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. You are not alone, and there is help available.

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