Anxiety is a feeling of unease and can be caused by different factors. It’s common to feel anxious now and then, but if it persists and causes distress, it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Unfortunately, most people assume that anxiety is just a feeling that will go away on its own, but it requires attention and care. In this blog post, we explore the key signs and symptoms of anxiety. We’re hoping that this post will help people to recognize when they are experiencing anxiety and to seek help.
Physical Symptoms
Anxiety symptoms often appear with physical conditions. Common signs include tension in the muscles, rapid heartbeat, hyperventilation (breathing fast), sweating, shaking, and dizziness. These symptoms can occur in different cases, for example, when in situations that trigger fear or stress. If you notice that these symptoms come frequently without any reasonable cause and persist, it could be an indication of anxiety.
Changes in Behavior
Anxiety often results in significant changes in behavior. You may find yourself avoiding situations that trigger stress or anxiety. For example, you might start skipping social gatherings or events, or you may become reluctant to leave home. These behavioral characteristics can point to underlying anxiety.
Intrusive Thoughts
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted or unwelcome thoughts that invade your mind. When anxiety strikes, you might find yourself thinking of worst-case scenarios. These fears can be paralyzing, and they can cause you to lose focus and productivity. If you are experiencing intrusive thoughts that prevent you from engaging fully in life and work, it’s time to seek help.
Negative Emotional Responses
Anxiety can cause you to experience negative emotional responses. You can feel tense, irritable, anxious, and even short-tempered. You might experience unexplained outbursts of anger or lash out at those around you. If you find yourself experiencing negative emotions frequently, coupled with other anxiety symptoms, it’s essential to consider seeking help.
Sleep Disturbances
Sleep disturbances are a common symptom of anxiety. You might find it difficult to fall asleep, frequently wake up in the middle of the night, or experience restlessness. In extreme cases, you can experience changes in appetite, leading to overeating or under-eating. If you’re having difficulty sleeping and noticing other anxiety symptoms, it’s critical to seek help.
If you are experiencing anxiety, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified therapist or counselor. These symptoms can be debilitating and can negatively impact your life. In psychotherapy, therapists use various techniques to counsel people with anxiety disorders, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, and exposure therapy. A therapist or counselor can evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan that will help you manage your anxiety effectively. Remember, anxiety can be a useful emotion, but if it gets out of control, it is important to seek help. Don’t suffer in silence; seek help today.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Maycee Dias, BSc (Hons), MSW, RSW, or another Kitchener therapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
