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Writer's pictureFirefly Mental Health

Do I have Anxiety? How do I know if I'm anxious?


Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, and it is a common and normal human emotion. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, and begins to interfere with your daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.


Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. Physical symptoms may also include sweating, trembling, and heart palpitations.


Answer these questions with an open mind :

  1. Do you experience excessive, ongoing anxiety and worry about everyday events or activities, even when there is no reason to be anxious?

  2. Do you find it challenging to control your anxiety and worry, even when you try to put your worries out of your mind?

  3. Do you experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, trembling, sweating, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath as a result of your anxiety?

  4. Have you experienced these symptoms for at least six months or longer?

  5. Do these symptoms interfere with your daily life, such as your job, school, or social activities?



If you answer yes to these questions, it may indicate that you have an anxiety disorder. However, only a mental health professional - a psychologist or a psychiatrist can provide a formal diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your individual symptoms and needs.


Treatment for anxiety disorders may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy used to treat anxiety, which focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.



It's important to remember that seeking help for anxiety is a sign of strength, and

you don't have to face it alone. With proper treatment and support, anxiety disorders are highly treatable, and individuals can lead happy, fulfilling lives.

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