Signs and symptoms of Anxiety

The symptoms of anxiety disorders are not always obvious because they often develop slowly over time, and because we all experience some anxiety at some point in our lives, it can be difficult to know how much is too much.

Normal anxiety is usually short-lived and associated with a stressful situation or event, such as a job interview. Anxiety in people with an anxiety disorder is more frequent or persistent, not always related to an obvious challenge, and has an impact on their quality of life and day-to-day functioning. While each anxiety disorder is distinct in its own way, the following are some common symptoms:

Physical:
Panic attacks, hot and cold flushes, racing heart, tightening of the chest, quick breathing, restlessness, or feeling tense, wound up and edgy

Psychological:
Excessive fear, worry, catastrophizing, or obsessive thinking

Behavioural:
Avoidance of situations that make you feel anxious which can impact on study, work or social life

These are just a few of the symptoms you might encounter. They are not intended to provide a diagnosis – you should consult a doctor for that – but they can be used as a guide.