Anxiety is the term given to the mental, behavioural and physical changes that occur to assist the body to combat threat or danger. However, this reaction can become harmful if it does not subside after the situation has passed or if the reaction your body has is out of proportion to the situation you find yourself in. If the anxiety continues for long periods and is more severe than the individual can tolerate, it may become disabling. As a result of the anxiety, you may often feel constantly wound up or on edge, become irritable, experience difficulties concentrating, and generally have a negative outlook on life.
Anxiety disorders are quite common amongst the general population.
These stressful events may exceed your coping abilities and you may begin to suffer from anxiety. Most people with anxiety problems describe themselves as nervous, emotional and tend to worry easily. There is evidence that genetics play some role in the development of anxiety disorders. This suggests that there is at least some biological or biochemical basis that contribute to the disorders. This becomes evident that the substance misuse is the cause of the anxiety if the person has not suffered from anxiety prior to using the illicit substance.