Prevalence and common contents of concern

Worry is a universal human experience, but its intensity and the issues it focuses on can vary considerably.

Understanding the prevalence of worry and the common factors that trigger it is helpful in normalizing this experience and in identifying when it may be becoming problematic.

Prevalence of Worry and Use of Anxiolytics

Studies and reports indicate that a significant percentage of the population experiences levels of worry that affect their daily lives.

For example, it is mentioned that approximately one-third of the population in certain contexts may feel that they worry too much.

This high prevalence of worry and anxiety is also reflected in the use of anti-anxiety medications, which are among the most prescribed drugs in many countries.

Data such as that 12% of men and 20% of women in Spain may have used anxiolytics in a given period, or that one in ten university students may taking them underscores the magnitude of the problem.

It is important to note that these medications are often obtained without a prescription, which raises additional concerns about their appropriate use.

Common Factors of Concern

The contents of the worry can be very diverse, but there are certain themes that tend to be common sources of concern for many people:

• Physical Appearance and Behavior: Concerns about how one is perceived by others, fear of being judged negatively by one's appearance or behavior in social situations.

• Health of Oneself and Loved Ones: Concern about one's own health, fear of getting sick or that something bad will happen to loved ones (family members, children, partner). This concern may even extend to pets.

• Functioning and Achievements: Worry about academic or work performance, professional future, financial situation, and ability to meet one's own and others' expectations.

• Global Issues: Concerns about broader issues such as climate change, the political situation, or social crises.

These issues reflect the areas of life that are often most valued and where uncertainty or the perception of threat can generate the most anxiety.

While worrying about these aspects is normal to a certain extent, it becomes problematic when the worry is excessive,persistent and interferes with quality of life.