There is no one definite cause of anxiety. Some people have a predisposition to it because of hormonal levels or other chemical imbalances. For some people, specific “triggers” or situations can cause anxiety. No matter what causes it, though, the most important thing to remember is you’re not alone in feeling anxious. Over 40 million adults in the United States alone are currently suffering from an anxiety disorder, and that number is merely accounting for the people who report. Furthermore, no two cases are exactly alike when it comes to the causes. You may have established fears in childhood that you were able to cope with at the time, and then a traumatic event triggers those worries in adulthood, leaving you in a constant state of nervousness. On the other hand, you may have just become more and more nervous with age. Anything is possible when it comes to causing anxiety. Just because you haven’t experienced a traumatic event or have a family history does not mean you will live life without understanding anxiety first hand. Chronic and Experiential Living with an anxiety disorder like General Anxiety Disorder seems to be like living in a state of insecurity, doom, or negativity. Things just aren’t okay and can’t or won’t be okay. Anxious, bothersome thoughts cycle through your brain unchecked and stuck on repeat. And so, chronic anxiety disorders often present as an illness because it behaves like an illness. It is persistent and inhabits your mind and body. It feels like the anxiety is who you are or a simple fact of your life. GAD isn’t particularly known for its intensity. Unlike acute anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, sufferers spend time managing GAD in an expected everyday way rather than anticipating sudden waves of anxiety. Essentially, it is more mentality than an intense event. It is a more nervous, jumpy experience than an explosive, frightening occurrence.