Individuals may experience anxiety due to their own personal past experiences and emotional traumas. Stress and trauma are a common trigger for anxiety problems.

The term “anxiety disorder” covers several specific disorders, each with their own signs and symptoms, and treatments. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has shown to be highly effective when treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), in changing the reactions to daily life that is causing strain. A common direction in therapy is showing that the thought processes that result in anxiety are unrealistic and, in a slow progression, identify the root of their anxiety and overcome it. Medication for generalized anxiety disorder can also be used in conjunction with therapy. Antidepressants are usually the first line of medication when treating generalized anxiety disorder.