Mechanisms underlying stress
Brain activity has been observed to undergo significant biological changes in anxiety patients. Simply stated, there may be decreased neurotransmitter release or hyperactivity in another brain region. In addition to these physiological alterations, anxiety can also be understood as a defense mechanism. When something is repeatedly perceived as a dread or threat, this defense mechanism becomes ingrained in the child’s psychological personality. There is also substantial evidence that genes play a role in predisposing patients to anxiety. In 5% of patients, it is believed that a mutation in the locus responsible for certain neurochemical transporters is the underlying cause.
