Several hormones can contribute to anxiety. Some of the most common culprits include:
- Stress hormones (cortisol and adrenaline): These hormones are released in response to perceived threats or stressors, triggering the "fight or flight" response. When these hormones are consistently elevated, they can lead to chronic anxiety.
- Estrogen: While estrogen is often associated with positive mood, fluctuating estrogen levels, particularly during the menstrual cycle, can contribute to anxiety in some women.
- Testosterone: Lower levels of testosterone, which can be triggered by stress hormone production, can also contribute to anxiety.
- Thyroid hormones: Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is frequently linked to increased anxiety, while hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can contribute to depression and anxiety.
Hormonal imbalances can lead to various problems, including mood fluctuations, anxiety, and other physical and mental health issues.
