Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults in the United States aged 18 and older. Many people don’t seek help because they don’t recognize that they have an anxiety disorder. They may just think that they are “stressed out” or “overly emotional.” This blog post will discuss 5 signs that you should consult with your doctor about anxiety. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to get help!
1. Your Anxiety is Harming Your Physical Well-Being
If your anxiety is causing you physical symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations, it’s time to talk to a doctor. These could be signs of an underlying condition like panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder, requiring professional treatment. You may experience physical symptoms that drain your energy levels and make it hard to concentrate on anything else and make it difficult to function regularly.
This is caused due to the fight-or-flight response that is constantly activated due to anxiety. When you are in a state of anxiety, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol which can cause physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and stomach upset.
2. You’re Using Alcohol or Drugs to Cope with Anxiety
If you find yourself drinking more alcohol than usual or using drugs to cope with anxiety, it’s time to get help. Many people turn to substances as a way to self-medicate and ease their anxiety, but this is only a temporary fix. In the long run, substance abuse will only make your anxiety worse. If you’re struggling with an addiction, there are many resources available to help you get on the road to recovery.
3. You’re Avoiding People and Situations
If your anxiety is causing you to avoid people or situations, it’s time to seek help. People with anxiety often start to withdraw from social activities and isolate themselves because they’re afraid of triggering their anxiety. However, this only reinforces the cycle of anxiety and avoidance. If you find yourself avoiding things that you used to enjoy, it’s time to get help.
This can be a sign of an underlying condition like social anxiety disorder. If left untreated, social anxiety can lead to a decline in mental and physical health. If you’re feeling isolated, there are many resources available to help you connect with others and get the treatment you need. Also, you can look for online anxiety medication from verified sources.
4. You’re Experiencing Changes in Your Sleeping Habits
If you’re having trouble sleeping, it could be a sign of anxiety. People with anxiety often have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. They may also have intrusive and racing thoughts that make it hard to relax. If you’re having trouble sleeping, it’s important to consult with your doctor to see if anxiety could be the cause.
Anxiety can also cause physical symptoms like restless legs syndrome (RLS), which makes it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. If you think you might have RLS, talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Additionally, people with anxiety may experience nightmares or night terrors due to the stress of their condition. If you’re having difficulty sleeping, it’s important to consult with your doctor to see if anxiety could be the cause.
5. You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
If you feel like your anxiety is out of control, it’s time to seek help. Many people with anxiety feel like they’re constantly on edge and that their symptoms are never-ending. This can be extremely overwhelming and make it difficult to function on a daily basis. If you’re feeling this way, it’s important to reach out for help so that you can get the treatment you need.
If you’re experiencing any of the above signs, it’s important to consult with a doctor or mental health professional. Anxiety disorders are treatable, but only if they are properly diagnosed and managed. Left untreated, anxiety disorders can lead to serious problems like depression, drug abuse, and even suicide.
Closing Thoughts
It’s also important to keep in mind that everyone experiences anxiety differently. What works for one person may not work for another. So if you’ve tried self-care methods like relaxation techniques and they haven’t worked, don’t give up! There are many different treatment options available, so there’s bound to be something that can help you.
