Understanding Anxiety: Is it Hereditary or Environmental?

Understanding the root causes of anxiety is a complex task, with both hereditary and environmental factors at play. Research suggests that genetics can contribute to an individual's susceptibility to anxiety disorders.

Anxiety vs Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety can be defined as an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat. Anxiety can become an anxiety disorder when it starts to impact a persons quality of life in debilitating ways.

Hereditary Factors:

Hereditary factors contribute to anxiety. If someone in your immediate family has anxiety, you may be at a higher risk of developing it too. Studies have shown that the parents, siblings, and children of an individual who has been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder are up to six times more likely to develop an anxiety disorder themselves.[i]

Understanding the genetic component

Research has shown that certain genetic variations can contribute to an individual's susceptibility to anxiety disorders. For instance, studies have shown that individuals with a specific genetic marker associated with serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation, were more likely to develop anxiety disorders compared to those without the marker.[ii]

Impact of specific genes on anxiety disorders

Certain genes have been found to impact the development of anxiety disorders. Understanding the role of these genes can provide insights into the hereditary nature of anxiety. Here are some key points to consider:

Genetics and environment:

While specific genes may contribute to the risk of developing anxiety disorders, the interplay between genetic factors and environmental influences is complex and plays a significant role.

Candidate genes: Various candidate genes have been associated with anxiety disorders, such as the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) and the COMT gene, which are involved in neurotransmitter regulation.[iii]

Gene variants: Certain genetic variations within these candidate genes have been linked to increased susceptibility to anxiety disorders, but it's important to note that they are not the sole determining factor.

Polygenic nature: Anxiety disorders are often polygenic, meaning that multiple genes interact with each other and with environmental factors to influence the risk of developing anxiety.

Individual vulnerability: Genetic variations can contribute to an individual's vulnerability to anxiety disorders, but it is crucial to recognize that resilience and coping strategies also play a significant role in managing anxiety.

Understanding the impact of specific genes on anxiety disorders provides valuable insights into the complex nature of anxiety heredity. However, it is important to remember that genes are just one component of a multifaceted equation, and other factors such as environment and personal experiences also shape the overall risk and expression of anxiety disorders.

Influence of upbringing and family dynamics

The influence of upbringing and family dynamics on anxiety cannot be ignored. Research shows that individuals who grow up in households where anxiety is prevalent are more likely to develop the condition themselves. This could be due to a combination of genetic factors and learned behavior. For example, if a parent frequently displays anxious behaviors or constantly worries about various aspects of life, their child may mirror these patterns. Moreover, if a family environment is marked by high levels of stress, conflict, or instability, it can contribute to the development of anxiety.

Effect of traumatic experiences on anxiety development

Traumatic experiences can also significantly contribute to the development of anxiety. These experiences, such as physical or emotional abuse, accidents, or natural disasters, can leave lasting effects on an individual's mental health. For example, someone who has been involved in a car accident may develop a fear of driving or experience panic attacks when on the road. Similarly, survivors of abuse may develop social anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is important to acknowledge and address these traumatic experiences to effectively manage and reduce anxiety symptoms.

Final thoughts

Anxiety is a complex condition that can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While research suggests that there is a hereditary component to anxiety, experts also emphasize the importance of environmental factors in its development. Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders are more likely to experience anxiety themselves due to shared genes and learned behaviors. However, environmental factors such as traumatic events, stressful upbringing, or chronic exposure to stressors can also significantly contribute to the development of anxiety.

Seeking help for anxiety is perfectly acceptable, and there are numerous treatment choices available for anxiety such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, medication and lifestyle changes.

[i] Hettema, J. M. (n.d.). A Review and Meta-Analysis of the Genetic Epidemiology of Anxiety Disorders. American Journal of Psychiatry. https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.ajp.158.10.1568 [ii] Martin, E., Ressler, K. J., Binder, E. B., & Nemeroff, C. B. (2009, September 1). The Neurobiology of Anxiety Disorders: Brain Imaging, Genetics, and Psychoneuroendocrinology. Psychiatric Clinics of North America; Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2009.05.004

[iii] Smoller, J. W. (2015, August 31). The Genetics of Stress-Related Disorders: PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety Disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology; Nature Portfolio. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2015.266 American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 2013;5(5). doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596

Ask H, Cheesman R, Jami ES, Levey DF, Purves KL, Weber H. Genetic contributions to anxiety disorders: where we are and where we are heading. Psychol Med. 2021;51(13):2231-2246.