In today’s fast-paced world, stress and worry are normal reactions to life’s challenges. Whether it’s juggling work deadlines, managing personal relationships, or balancing household budgets, these feelings often come and go. But when the worry extends to minor things and disrupts your daily life, it could signal something deeper — like an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders go beyond occasional feelings of nervousness or stress. They involve persistent, intense feelings of fear, dread, and distress that interfere with work, school, social connections, and overall quality of life.
Left untreated, anxiety disorders can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use or social isolation. They also increase the risk of developing other mental health conditions like depression.
Almost a third of adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, and that number is continuing to grow. People of all ages, genders, and backgrounds are at risk, but help is available.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
There are a variety of anxiety disorders. Dr. Ryan Connolly, senior medical director for behavioral health at Independence Blue Cross (IBX), says all anxiety disorders share some similar symptoms, including trouble concentrating, tension, insomnia, trembling, and a feeling of impending doom. However, the severity and focus of these symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder.
Here are the most common anxiety disorders:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive, unrealistic worry about everyday stressors, such as finances, health, relationships, and the future. Unlike fleeting moments of stress, GAD is associated with persistent anxiety lasting at least six months, as well as headaches, nausea, trouble breathing, and racing thoughts that make it difficult to relax.
- Social anxiety disorder involves intense fear of social situations because you might be judged, rejected, or embarrassed. Although it’s common for people to experience some stress when meeting new people or speaking in public, people with social anxiety disorder get overwhelmed by basic interactions, even with people they know. To cope, some people avoid social situations entirely. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat or physical tension during conversations, fear of being watched, and a tendency to overanalyze interactions by endlessly replaying them.
- Panic disorder is characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear, known as panic attacks. These attacks often happen unexpectedly, without any clear warning or trigger. They can make a person feel as though they’re losing control, experiencing a medical emergency, or dying, even though there is no danger present. Symptoms can include racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, and trembling or shaking.
Take the First Steps Toward Feeling Better
According to Dr. Connolly, “Anxiety disorders cause uncomfortable symptoms that can interfere with our daily lives and ability to function. Our attempts to cope by avoiding the situations and settings that make us feel uncomfortable have severe impacts on our well-being. For example, in social anxiety disorder, it is the avoidance of discomfort that leads to the isolation and social deprivation that are the really damaging effects of this condition.”
Anxiety disorders can feel overwhelming, isolating, and even debilitating, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Help is available. Dr. Connolly says, “The best supports and treatments focus on learning how to gradually get back to normal activities.” People typically find relief through talk therapy, lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of these approaches.
If your anxiety goes beyond everyday worries and is interfering with your quality of life, it’s time to seek help. Talk to your health care provider; they can recommend mental health professionals who can develop a care plan that works for you. By reaching out for support, you can learn how to manage your symptoms and focus on the things that bring you joy.
Remember, asking for help is a courageous act of self-care and an investment in your well-being.
For more information about anxiety disorders, self-care strategies, and resources for finding professional help, visit ibx.com/knowyourmind.
