What Are the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder?

Wondering whether you might have an anxiety disorder? Read on to learn more. Most people experience at least some amount of anxiety on an occasional basis. However, some may be dealing with an anxiety disorder if the tendency to worry is having a negative impact on overall life aspects.

Having an understanding of the most common symptoms and signs of anxiety disorders can be quite helpful to those who think that they are suffering. It can also be helpful when supporting family members or friends.

Mental and emotional symptoms of anxiety disorders

Signs of anxiety can creep up without any conscious recognition of an underlying cause. It is important to listen to your body and take note of any changes in your mental health.

Difficulty concentrating or focusing

Oftentimes, those who suffer from an anxiety disorder will experience difficulty concentrating or focusing. Anxiety disorders can make it incredibly difficult to even know how or where to start with the day's to-do list. It can also make one less efficient at getting certain things done, making it easy to fall behind on everything from job tasks to chores to basic self-care. Over time, if anxiety disorders are not managed, this can become problematic in both a professional and personal way. School or work can become compromised, as well as one's overall health.

Irritability

Those who feel consistently agitated, angry, or annoyed, even at the small things, could suffer from an anxiety disorder. Those who have anxiety disorders are more likely to be easily irritated, even if they have a normally easygoing personality. Irritability can be alarming and extremely unexpected, which leads to outbursts, both personally and externally with family members, friends, or co-workers.

Inability to relax

Anxiety disorders can make one feel consistently restless. Some find it difficult to sit down or sit still for more than a moment or two. Feeling the need to constantly move may be a sign of serious anxiety. Oftentimes, the hands, legs, and feet shake quite a bit. Over time, this inability to relax can also have an effect on one's physical health.

Persistent feelings of worry, guilt, stress, or fear

While all of these emotions are completely normal, those with an anxiety disorder are often unable to overcome them or "turn them off" in their minds. Instead, there is often an endless cycle of negative thoughts, caused by replaying past or potential events, often without a realistic point of view. For example, one may worry about work or school, which can become problematic. On the other hand, there may be a constant state of worry regarding relationships or friendships.

Oftentimes, those with anxiety disorders cannot control these feelings, which can lead to anxiety or panic attacks, both of which can be quite detrimental to overall health and life. It can be crippling to be caught in a constant web of worry or fear, which is why it is so important to seek help for these particular symptoms.

Physical symptoms of anxiety disorder

While the emotional and mental aspects of an anxiety disorder are often the most obvious, many physical signs can start to manifest as well. Persistent anxiety can make it difficult to sleep well. It can also lead to chronic fatigue throughout the day, even when getting enough rest at night. Many people also experience muscle pain and tension, especially in the form of headaches.

Severe anxiety disorders can lead to panic attacks, which can be very frightening. The signs may include the following:

• Difficulty breathing
• Sweating
• Chest pain or tightness
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Rapid pulse
• Shaking

When suffering from panic attacks that are brought on by anxiety disorders, it is advised to work with a psychiatrist to determine the best way to manage the associated symptoms. There are a wealth of resources available to those struggling with mental health, all of which can be beneficial to one's mental, emotional, and even physical health.

Suffering from anxiety?

Dealing with an anxiety disorder can be overwhelming. For some people, it can be nearly impossible to function, much less live a happy and fulfilling life. Chronic anxiety tends to worsen over time without help, so it is important to seek care for this issue. Talking with a professional can help you create a realistic plan for a healthier and happier life.

If you suspect you may have an anxiety disorder, contact our office today. Our caring team of professionals can help give you the tools and support you need to prioritize and improve your mental health.

Get more information here: https://www.hopetmsofny.com or call Hope TMS and Neuropsychiatric Center at (646) 578-8152

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