Recognizing the 7 signs of anxiety in your life

Anxiety is a normal emotion, but for some it can take on a life of its own and can become a disorder. This is why understanding the signs of anxiety in your life is important. Anxiety is feeling that is a biological reaction—the body’s way of telling us something isn’t right. But if anxiety becomes overwhelming and persistent, or if it interferes with regular daily activities, or even makes them impossible, it may be an anxiety disorder. We will explore what the 7 signs of an anxiety disorder are but first, let’s see just how prevalant anxiety actually is in our world.

Here are a few interesting stats regarding anxiety disorders from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA):

-Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders in the U.S.
-Over 40 million adults experience an anxiety disorder each year
-There are many different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, and more
-Anxiety disorders can develop for a number of reasons, including genetics, brain chemistry, and life events
-According to the WHO, 1 in 13 people around the world suffer from anxiety
-Only about 1/3 of those suffering receive treatment
-About 8% of children and teenagers experience an anxiety disorder

Those suffering from anxiety disorders are not alone!

Anxiety can present in many ways in someone’s life, most of which are normal! Think about typical nerves you get when preparing to interview for a job, or fearing something that actually is dangerous.

Here are the 7 signs of an anxiety disorder which may indicate that your anxiety is becoming a clinical issue:

1. Constant worry – without cause – that interrupts daily life.
2. Preoccupied worry about tests, bills, relationships.
3. Avoid social gatherings out of fear of feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed.
4. Feeling awkward in most or all social situations.
5. Panic attacks without cause and perpetual fear of having another one
6. Panic before a big moment or event.
7. Irrational / unexplainable fear of something that poses no danger.

If any of this sounds like you, it could benefit you to explore with a counselor how you are experiencing the life you live including work, school, and recreation. It is important to know that any Anxiety Disorder or anxious response you are having can be very manageable so you do not have to live with continuous anxious distress. Speak with a therapist here at Miracles so you can live your most fulfilled and intentional life you deserve.