There are words with strict psychological meanings that also have everyday meanings. For example, narcissism and depression connote very different things — depending on the context. Another such word is anxiety.Feeling anxious from time to time is part of the human condition. We can use this word as a synonym for apprehension or concern or doubt. When a mental health professional talks about anxiety, it’s often part of a discussion about a diagnosable emotional disorder.But what does that mean for the rest of us? If the literal word sends mixed signals, how can you know if what you’re feeling is normal or a symptom?
Anxiety in Context
As an evolutionary tool, anxiety has served us well. It keeps us alert and aware and warns us of risky situations. Put simply, if your brain senses danger, it produces physiological symptoms to get our attention. You have your anxiety response to thank for keeping you wary in unfamiliar or unsafe places.Each of us experiences this anxiety response in our own way. Two people could react differently to loud noise without either of them displaying signs of a disorder. If one of them responds to practically every noise with a startle reaction, this could signal a dysfunction.Again, just about every single one of us will get “butterflies” in our stomach before a first date or big job interview. Since we’ll rarely be chased by predators across the plains, this is what anxiety is designed to do in the modern age. However, if something like a first date leads to sheer panic and/or canceling all social plans, it might make sense to get another opinion (see below). Until then, there are some signs you can watch for.
Some Symptoms That May Mean You’re Suffering From Anxiety
Avoidance
People with an anxiety disorder may feel safest when alone or in situations they feel they can control. This leads to plenty of canceled plans and declined invitations. The longer this pattern exists, the easier it is to say no. It reaches the point where actually following through on a social plan feels dangerously far out of your comfort zone. It can be panic-inducing.
Difficulty Making Decisions
Anxiety manifests in perfectionism which is actually a fear of failure. Agonizing over every decision — big or small — is not you being “careful.” It’s more likely a sign that anxiety has entered the chat room.
Income Issues
Social anxiety, in particular, can hamper your financial potential. Typically, making money involves some kind of social interaction. If you’ve been under-earning but can’t pinpoint why you may have found the culprit.
Physical Symptoms
How many of these sound all-too-familiar?
Trembling hands
Shaky voice
Extreme perspiration
Sleep disturbances
Digestive issues
Unexplained muscle tension and aches
Headache
Heart palpitations
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
The list goes on…and on. You can include cognitive concerns like forgetfulness, loss of focus and concentration, memory problems, and disproportionate anger or sadness too. If your physical or cognitive symptoms have no clear-cut cause, they could be a sign of unchecked and unexplored anxiety.
Chronic, Worst-Case Scenario Worrying
As mentioned above, we all worry at times. There can be lots to worry about. However, the anxious person worries as a default setting. The worrying escalates until a worst-case scenario has been (allegedly) identified. This, in turn, sets up more worrying and can significantly diminish your quality of life.
Get a Professional Opinion
It’s risky business to attempt to diagnose yourself. Even worse would be allowing others in your life to do that. Instead, it is prudent to consult with a trained therapist to deeply and closely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Regular counseling sessions are safe times to obtain the support you need. Please reach out for a consultation, we are here for you.
To know more about my services go to Anxiety Treatment.