Causes of Anxiety Disorders
Risk factors implicated in anxiety disorders are divided into two major groups: predisposing risk factors, which mean that some people are more likely to suffer a disorder than others (that is, they are more vulnerable), and the triggers, which are related to the onset of the disorder. The sum of these predisposing and triggering risk factors is what make an anxiety disorder more or less likely to appear.
Predisposing risk factors
Family history. There is a genetic component in most anxiety disorders, suggesting that individuals with a family history of anxiety are at greater risk of developing one themselves. However, this does not mean that a person with an anxiety disorder will necessarily pass it on to their children; it simply increases the risk.
Female sex. Females are twice as likely as males to develop an anxiety disorder. These differences tend to emerge from adolescence onwards. There is still a lack of research looking at gender as a social construct, in contrast to biological sex, when it comes to understanding anxiety.
Exposure to substances during pregnancy. Exposure to certain substances during pregnancy, like alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs and some medications may increase the baby’s risk of developing various conditions, including anxiety disorders.
Maternal stress during pregnancy. Foetal exposure to high levels of maternal stress during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety symptoms in childhood.
Premature birth and low birth weight. Children born prematurely or with low birth weight may be more likely to experience anxiety during childhood and later in life.
Parenting style. Certain parenting styles can contribute to a greater predisposition to developing an anxiety disorder. Children who grow up with highly strict or very overprotective parenting are more vulnerable to developing anxiety disorders.
Insecure-avoidant attachment and/or reactive attachment disorder. Children who develop insecure attachment patterns with their main caregivers or who show signs of disordered attachment (such as excessive social withdrawal and inhibition) are more likely to experience social anxiety and a sense of insecurity, both in the short and long term. These attachment difficulties are more common in children who have been adopted or are in foster care.
Temperament. A person's natural temperament may also contribute to develop an anxiety disorder. A strong tendency towards inhibition or shyness may increase the risk of developing anxiety.
Triggering risk factors
Stressful situations. Situations that exceed a person's ability to cope –such as difficulties at work, problems in personal relationships, accidents, or serious illness– can increase the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. These events can also lead to a relapse after a period of improvement.
Consuming harmful substances. Certain drugs can trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms, either during their consumption or shortly afterwards. Stimulants like caffeine, amphetamines and cocaine are particularly likely to cause symptoms of anxiety.
It’s important to note that no single risk factor causes anxiety disorders on its own. When it comes to treatment, the factors that maintain the disorder are more relevant than risk factors. These “maintaining” factors are the target of effective psychological treatment.
Substantiated information by:
Published: 29 January 2019
Updated: 13 October 2025
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