Anxiety
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress and perceived threats, but when it becomes overwhelming or persistent, it can interfere with daily life. Your brain’s “high alert” mode triggers physical symptoms like increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and heightened sensitivity, preparing you for danger – even when none exists.
Several factors contribute to anxiety, including genetics, environmental stressors, and brain chemistry. Some people inherit traits that make them more susceptible, while others develop anxiety due to trauma or chronic stress. Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, GABA, and norepinephrine also play a role in anxiety disorders.
Interested in being evaluated for anxiety?
If anxiety is affecting your daily life, you’re not alone. Identifying your feelings and physical symptoms as anxiety and understanding the root causes can be the first step toward better mental well-being.
Common symptoms of anxiety: How to recognize the signs
Anxiety disorders come in many forms, from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) to phobias, OCD, and panic disorders. While each condition has unique characteristics, anxiety often coexists with depression, substance use disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), making diagnosis and treatment more complex.
Here are some of the most common psychological and physical symptoms of anxiety:
Psychological Anxiety Symptoms
- Persistent worry: Constant feelings of dread or fear, even without an obvious cause.
- Irrational fears: Heightened anxiety about specific situations, objects, or social interactions.
- Intrusive thoughts: Unwanted, repetitive thoughts that are difficult to control.
- Sensitivity to perceived threats: Feeling easily startled or hyper-aware of potential dangers.
Physical Anxiety Symptoms
- Muscle tension: Ongoing tightness, stiffness, or discomfort in muscles.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea or digestive discomfort.
- Heart palpitations: A racing or irregular heartbeat, often accompanied by chest discomfort.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, sometimes leading to hyperventilation.
Psychological Testing and Anxiety Management: A Personalized Approach
Managing anxiety can feel overwhelming, but psychological testing provides a clear path toward accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. A comprehensive evaluation helps identify the root causes of your anxiety and ensures that treatment plans are tailored to your specific needs.
How psychological testing for anxiety can help unlock clarity:
- Accurate identification: Distinguishes between generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, OCD, social anxiety, and phobias to guide treatment.
- Personalized treatment plans: Customized strategies based on your unique symptoms and experiences.
Take control of your anxiety
With expert insight and the right support relief from anxiety is possible. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how a psychological evaluation can help support your mental wel-beging.
