Everybody gets anxious from time to time – but there is a big difference between occasional anxiety and the persistent ruminating thoughts and behaviors that characterize anxiety disorders. The good news is that the symptoms can be treated through various therapeutic methods. Remember that you are not alone and that many people around the world experience anxiety. Talk to your doctor about different options to keep your anxiety at bay to live a more peaceful life. Here are five possible signs that your anxiety is a mental health issue.
It’s chronic
Common fears like public speaking or insects can be enough to make anyone feel nervous. But those with an anxiety disorder may have this panicked feeling even during “normal” circumstances, and sometimes there isn’t even a reason for the panic.
You’re overly self-conscious
People with an anxiety disorder live their lives very inwardly and may be convinced that everyone is looking at them and judging them. Although no one enjoys feeling criticized, a person with an anxiety disorder feels this judgment much more deeply. This form of self-criticism can manifest itself in social anxiety disorder and could lead people with this diagnosis to avoid social situations altogether to avoid their feelings of inadequacy and shame.
Muscle tension
An anxiety disorder can be thought of as mental tension, which can present itself in physical ways as well. If you find yourself clenching your jaw or fists or using some other tense variation during the day, it may be due to anxiety.
Obsessive self-doubt
Making decisions can be tough, but making them when you have an anxiety disorder can be extra crippling. It’s normal to weigh the pros and cons of situations, but when chronic anxiety is involved, the decision-making process is taken to the next level (and not in a good way). Those with an anxiety disorder will go back and forth on situations many times and have immense trouble settling on anything for fear of making the “wrong” choice.
Poor sleep habits
Getting a good night’s sleep isn’t always possible, but sometimes it can become a routine. Whether it’s mulling over all the things that went wrong during the day or just feeling an energized sense of panic, people with anxiety disorders often have issues maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. This in turn creates a domino effect because sleep deprivation can make anxiety even worse.
Sources:
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20646990,00.html#self-doubt
https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/guide/anxiety-disorders#1
https://socialanxietyinstitute.org/what-is-social-anxiety
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/sleep-disorders
