Anxiety is a common emotional experience, but it can manifest in various forms, from healthy, situational anxiety to more persistent, unhealthy anxiety disorders. Understanding the differences and recognizing when anxiety becomes a problem is crucial for seeking appropriate help and treatment. This blog will explore the most common symptoms of anxiety, distinguish between healthy and unhealthy anxiety, and explain how to know if your anxiety is a diagnosable disorder. 

Common Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety manifests through a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Here are some of the most common:

Physical Symptoms

• Increased heart rate or palpitations
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Muscle tension
• Headaches
• Stomach issues, such as nausea or diarrhea
• Fatigue

Emotional Symptoms

• Excessive worry or fear
• Feeling restless or on edge
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling overwhelmed

Behavioral Symptoms

• Avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations
• Compulsive behaviors (e.g., excessive checking or reassurance-seeking)
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Anxiety

Healthy Anxiety

Healthy anxiety is a natural and adaptive response to stress or danger. It is typically short-lived and proportional to the situation. Examples include feeling nervous before a big presentation or during a job interview. This type of anxiety can motivate you to prepare and perform well.

Unhealthy Anxiety

Unhealthy anxiety, on the other hand, is disproportionate to the situation, persistent, and interferes with daily functioning. It can occur without any apparent trigger and may lead to significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of life.

Knowing When Anxiety Is a Problem

It can be challenging to distinguish between common anxiety and a diagnosable anxiety disorder. Here are some indicators that your anxiety may be a diagnosable disorder:

Duration and Intensity

• Anxiety that is persistent, lasting for six months or more with prominent tension, worry, and feelings of apprehension about every-day situations and problems.
• Anxiety that is excessive and out of proportion to the situation

Impairment

• Anxiety that interferes with daily activities, such as work, school, or social interactions
• Avoidance behaviors that limit your ability to function normally

Physical Health Impact

• Anxiety that leads to significant physical symptoms, such as chronic headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or high blood pressure

Emotional and Psychological Impact

• Anxiety that causes significant distress and prevents you from enjoying life

How to Get Diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder

There are many types of anxiety disorders, each with distinct symptoms and treatment approaches. Because of this diversity, it is crucial to receive a proper diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional. Accurate diagnosis ensures that you receive the most effective treatment tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, online surveys are not a diagnostic tool. 

If you suspect that your anxiety is more than just common anxiety, seeking a professional evaluation is crucial. Here is the typical process for getting diagnosed with an anxiety disorder:

• Consult a Healthcare Professional

You can start by discussing your symptoms with your primary care physician, who can rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to your anxiety.

• Consult a Psychologist or other Master’s Level Mental Health Professional

If you or your primary care physician suspects an anxiety disorder, you should seek help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or master’s level mental health counselor or clinical social worker. However, you do not need to see your primary care physician before reaching out to a mental health professional. 

• Clinical Assessment

The mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment, which may include:

• A detailed interview about your symptoms, medical history, and any relevant personal or family history of mental health issues
• Standardized questionnaires or assessment tools, such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) scale or the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)
• Based on the assessment, the mental health professional will determine if you meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Common anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and specific phobias.
• If diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the mental health professional will work with you to develop a treatment plan, which may include therapy (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Exposure Therapy), medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these approaches.

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of anxiety and understanding when it becomes a problem is the first step toward getting help. Healthy anxiety is a normal part of life, but when anxiety becomes overwhelming, persistent, and disruptive, it is essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment. With the right support and interventions, managing and overcoming anxiety is possible, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling life. At Birchwood Clinic our team of licensed mental health professionals are able to help diagnose and treat various anxiety disorders.