Consider the Ravens: An Exploration of Anxiety

This Honors Senior Capstone Project is a culmination of research and personal anecdotes on the various aspects of anxiety. Anxiety disorders are prevalent in society and personally relevant to the author's life, so the topic is introduced in a semi-autobiographical manner. The biological aspects of anxiety are discussed at length, including details on the brain structures, signaling patterns, small molecules, and connections between these components involved in the anxiety response. Overall effects on health and genetic and environmental influences are also discussed. The psychological and behavioral aspects of anxiety are then explored, focusing on three main forms of anxiety-related disorders: generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Typical behaviors and personal experiences relating to these behaviors are incorporated. Finally, the treatment of anxiety disorders is expounded upon, with the discussion incorporating typical methods of treatment and concluding with personal therapeutic activities.