What exactly does it imply when someone claims to “have” anxiety? Anxiety may have many different meanings, but in most cases, it significantly impacts the quality of life, ability to perform, and general contentment of those who “have” it.
No one is immune to the anxiety that stressful life events may bring on, but those who suffer from anxiety usually find ways to combat it. Even in seemingly low-stress settings, people with anxiety might still have anxious feelings; this is not to say that they never have happy days.
If your worry is interfering with your daily life to this degree, you could have an anxiety disorder. Although it is possible to get therapy from a counselor without ever receiving a diagnosis, a name may be useful for some individuals, and it is important to recognize that everyone struggles with anxiety regardless of diagnosis.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) states that GAD is defined by excessive and persistent concern about many things, including but not limited to finances, health, family, and jobs. Even when there is no reason to be worried, people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) always think the worst will happen.
A diagnosis requires the presence of three symptoms for a minimum of six months daily:
- Unease, agitation, or a tense state of mind
- Feeling tired easily
- Having trouble focusing or thoughts wander
- Irritability
- Tense muscles
- Disruption to sleep (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless, unsatisfying sleep)
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Social Anxiety Disorder
Anxieties about being poorly perceived or rejected in a social or performance setting characterize social anxiety disorder, as stated by the American Statistical Association of Anxiety Disorders (ADAA). This goes beyond just being timid. Those who suffer from an anxiety condition often avoid settings where they are expected to be sociable because they feel overwhelming worry and anguish when they are unable to do so.
In addition, those who suffer from social anxiety often encounter bodily manifestations while interacting with others, including:
- An elevated pulse rate
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Episodes of extreme anxiety
A diagnosis is only possible if the level of distress over social situations is so high that it significantly impacts the patient’s day-to-day functioning, such as their ability to follow through with daily tasks, perform well at work, maintain friendships or romantic relationships, and feel overall happiness.
Panic Disorder
Individuals who have panic disorder endure irrational, life-altering panic episodes. As a result of these episodes, people
