Anxiety can start at various ages depending on the specific anxiety disorder, but some anxiety disorders can begin as early as childhood, while others typically emerge in adulthood.
The age of onset for anxiety disorders varies significantly. Some anxiety disorders, like separation anxiety, specific phobias, and social phobia, often have their mean onset before the age of 15. In contrast, other anxiety disorders, such as agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), tend to begin, on average, between 21 and 35 years of age.
Here’s a breakdown of typical onset ages for different anxiety disorders:
- Separation Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobia, and Social Phobia: Mean onset before age 15.
- Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Mean onset between 21.1 and 34.9 years.
It's important to remember that these are average ages, and individuals may experience anxiety disorders outside of these ranges. Factors such as genetics, environment, and life experiences can influence when anxiety starts. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of anxiety, seeking professional help from a mental health professional is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
