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Vasopressin (AVP) is a neuropeptide that can contribute to anxiety and other stress-related disturbances. AVP receptors, particularly the V1a receptor, are involved in the social and emotional effects of AVP, including anxiety, fear, and aggression. 

Here's some information about AVP and anxiety:

• Role in anxiety

  AVP is thought to contribute to anxiety because it's a central regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis, which is a key part of stress adaptation. 
• Therapeutic target

  AVP receptors are a potential target for treating anxiety disorders. A study found that the V1a receptor antagonist SRX246 decreased anxiety-potentiated startle, which is elevated in anxiety and trauma-associated disorders. 
• Balance with oxytocin

  AVP and oxytocin (OT) have opposing effects on emotional behaviors, so a balance between the two is important for appropriate emotional behaviors. OT has anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, while AVP has anxiogenic and depressive actions.