Anxiety disorders
Anxiety is a normal feeling, but when it becomes constant, intense, and begins to interfere with daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety is a feeling that all people experience from time to time—for example, before an exam, a doctor's appointment, or an important job interview. It is normal and even useful because it helps us focus and be alert. But when anxiety becomes constant, intense, and begins to interfere with daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
An anxiety disorder is not just nervousness, but a condition in which worry, inner tension, and fear prevent you from living as you did before.
This can lead to panic attacks—sudden and very intense episodes of anxiety, during which you may feel like you are suffocating or having a heart attack.
Persistent anxiety symptoms can be both physical and mental:
constant worrying that is difficult to control;
heart palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating;
restlessness, tense muscles, a feeling of a "lump in the throat";
fear that something bad will happen, even though there is no real danger;
difficulty falling asleep or concentrating;
fatigue, even when you have not done anything physically demanding;
Persistent anxiety symptoms can be both physical and mental:
constant worrying that is difficult to control;
heart palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating;
restlessness, tense muscles, a feeling of a "lump in the throat";
fear that something bad will happen, even though there is no real danger;
difficulty falling asleep or concentrating;
fatigue, even when you have not done anything physically demanding;
How can you tell that your anxiety is no longer "normal"?
If your anxiety does not go away, lasts more than 6 months, occurs for no apparent reason, and interferes with your work, sleep, or relationships, then it is worth seeking help.
Normal worrying is related to a specific situation and passes. With an anxiety disorder, you worry even when there seems to be no reason.
Anxiety can arise for various reasons. Some of the most common are:
- long-term stress – work, family, or financial problems;
- previous bad experiences or trauma;
- genetic predisposition – if someone in the family has experienced something similar;
- changes in the brain and body – for example, nervous system sensitivity.
Ways to get help
There are many things you can do yourself to reduce anxiety. The main ways to help yourself are:
- breathe deeply and slowly – this calms the body and mind;
- exercise every day – walking, yoga, or working out reduce anxiety;
- structure your day – regular sleep and meal times give your body a sense of security;
- avoid alcohol, nicotine, and excessive coffee consumption – these can increase anxiety;
- share your feelings – talking helps relieve tension.
There are many things you can do yourself to reduce anxiety. The main ways to help yourself are:
- breathe deeply and slowly – this calms the body and mind;
- exercise every day – walking, yoga, or working out reduce anxiety;
- structure your day – regular sleep and meal times give your body a sense of security;
- avoid alcohol, nicotine, and excessive coffee consumption – these can increase anxiety;
- share your feelings – talking helps relieve tension.
If these measures are already part of your lifestyle but your anxiety persists, you can seek help from a psychologist, psychiatrist, or family doctor. Psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy) and, if necessary, medication can be effective in helping to balance anxiety.
You should consult a specialist if:
anxiety prevents you from going to work or school;
anxiety affects your sleep, eating, and/or socializing;
you feel anxious all the time and it seems uncontrollable;
you experience panic attacks.