Occasional anxiety is something every person encounters from time to time. Whether it’s before a job interview, after receiving some sad news, or in the minutes leading up to a public speaking event, feelings of anxiousness will naturally occur every so often as we navigate our daily lives. 

 

However, for those experiencing daily, inexplicable anxiety, there may be a greater underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Chronic anxiety can be immensely paralyzing to live with – making normal, everyday activities feel virtually impossible to do when left untreated.

 

Anxiety disorders often cause individuals to become overwhelmed by fear – even in situations that don’t regularly elicit feelings of fear. These pulse-pounding bursts of anxiety, also known as panic attacks, can feel debilitating, interfering with your daily life. 

 

Some anxiety is a product of a phobia or social situation, while other forms are caused by an underlying medical condition.

 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety?

As mentioned earlier, sporadic bouts of anxiety are something most people experience over the course of their lifetime (and perfectly normal). However, in other cases, the symptoms you’re encountering could be related to an anxiety disorder. The following is a list of common symptoms associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

 

• Feelings of restlessness, tenseness, or nervousness
• Increased heart rate
• Shortness of breath
• Fearing danger or experiencing panic
• Excessive sweating or trembling
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating due to repetitive or intrusive thoughts
• Difficulty sleeping at night
• Gastrointestinal issues
• The inability to rationalize your worries or concerns
• Actively avoiding situations that could trigger your anxiety

 

What Causes Anxiety Disorders?

There are a number of factors that can cause the presence of anxiety. For instance, some forms of anxiety can be linked to underlying health issues that have yet to be identified. These issues include:

 

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Overuse of drugs
• Withdrawal from narcotics
• Alcohol withdrawal
• Chronic bowel syndrome
• Chronic pain
• The use of certain medications

 

What Are The Risk Factors?

There are certain risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder. For example, a terrifying car accident or childhood trauma could trigger the presence of anxiety. Additionally, anxiety tends to run in the family – especially when the disorder is caused by a chemical imbalance in the body. 

 

When You Should Seek Medical Help?

If you’re experiencing anxiety on a daily basis or multiple times per week, you shouldn’t feel guilty or ashamed, nor should you let the issue continue without seeking medical help. Here are signs that indicate it’s time to seek treatment:

 

• If you think that your anxiety could be related to your physical health
• If panic and worry is interfering with your professional life or personal relationships
• Your anxiety feels difficult to handle as if it’s out of your control
• If you’re having substance abuse problems due to anxiety issues
• If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek medical help immediately. 

 

Anxiety is a common issue that affects many. If you are in the Winnipeg area and you’re experiencing anxiety, you can find a licensed and trained professional at My Winnipeg Therapist. 

Always remember, anxiety doesn’t define you – nor does it control you (although it may feel like it does). Let us help you combat feelings of anxiousness and reclaim the life you deserve. Contact us today!