Assessing our potential for having an anxiety disorder: Check the following that apply to you.
-
I excessively worry more days than not, and it has lasted for at least six months.
-
I worry unreasonably about events or activities, such as work or school and/or health.
-
I do not have the inability to control the worry.
-
I am worried about being restless, feeling keyed-up or on edge.
-
I am easily tired.
-
I have problems concentrating.
-
People tell me that I am irritable most of the time.
-
I experience muscle tension a lot.
-
I have problems falling asleep or staying asleep, or have unsatisfying sleep.
-
I feel that my anxiety causes me to be disruptive or abusive to myself or others.
If you checked any of the above we suggest that you speak to a counselor to assess the level of care needed to treat a potential anxiety disorder.
Anxiety and worry are a normal part of life. Whether the stakes are a job or the outcome of a sporting event, most people will worry at least a little bit about how things will turn out. Not only is anxiety a common human emotion, but moderate amounts of anxiety can be helpful by motivating people to prepare for an exam, complete a work assignment, or deliver an energized speech. When persistent and unrealistic worry is unrelated to another illness and becomes a habitual way of approaching situations, an individual may be suffering from an anxiety disorder (AD)
Experts believe AD probably is caused by a combination of biological factors and life events. In fact, many people who have AD also have other medical disorders, such as depression and/or panic disorder, that seem to be influenced by certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin.
Realistic anxiety, such as financial concerns after losing a job, is not a sign of AD. But chronic and excessive worry about events that are unlikely to occur is cause for concern. Individuals with AD also experience a number of other physical and emotional difficulties, including trembling, muscular aches or soreness, restlessness, insomnia, sweating, abdominal upsets, dizziness, concentration problems, edginess, and irritability.
REACH counselors are available to provide further assistance for anxiety concerns. To speak to a REACH counselor call 1-800-273-5273.
Suggested website for additional information: