Depression, social isolation, suicidal thoughts, and chronic pain can occur if anxiety disorders are not controlled and treated promptly.
Untreated chronic anxiety can lead to mental, physical, and emotional complications that affect quality of life. Some complications can be controlled by changing lifestyle, but most require the help of experts and doctors.
Depression
Depression and anxiety often go hand in hand. People with major depressive disorder mostly have one or more anxiety disorders. Because the two conditions have similar causes, including genetics, trauma, and depression.
Constant anxiety and stress lead to feelings of hopelessness and sadness, characteristic of depression. Similarly, complications related to depression can make people feel anxious. Both of these conditions can be treated through therapy or medication.
Sleep disorders
Stress and anxiety are associated with a variety of sleep disorders such as insomnia, poor sleep quality, difficulty maintaining sleep or restless sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Lack of sleep makes symptoms worse. Many people with anxiety sleep too much and see this as a way to get rid of fatigue and fear caused by the disease.
Reduced work productivity
Chronic anxiety can affect the brain’s executive functions. Patients are often stressed so it is difficult to concentrate on work and regulate emotions. This can lead to procrastination, missed deadlines, and reduced productivity. Housework skills and daily life arrangements are also negatively impacted.
Social isolation
Anxiety disorders can lead to social isolation. Fear of being judged or embarrassed causes patients to avoid social interaction, leading to loneliness and reduced interaction. While social isolation can worsen symptoms, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.
Chronic pain
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, chronic pain is closely related to anxiety. People with this psychological condition often suffer from migraines, back pain, arthritis, and digestive disorders. Because anxiety stimulates the brain to secrete hormones that cause stress, inflammation and pain.
Suicidal
Psychological disorders, stress and fatigue increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. People with this disease feel overwhelmed and shocked by their symptoms, leading to despair, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
If there are signs of psychological disorders, anxiety, or prolonged stress, the patient should see a doctor to receive treatment support and improve quality of life. Anxiety disorders can be cured, and early treatment significantly reduces the risk of complications.