Anxiety Disorder Symptoms

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions in which excessive fear, worry, or nervousness is persistent and difficult to control. Unlike normal situational anxiety, an anxiety disorder interferes with daily life and may manifest as generalized anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, or social anxiety. Symptoms may be emotional (constant worry), physical (fast heartbeat, sweating, trembling), and behavioral (avoidance of triggers).

• Biological factors: Genetic predisposition, changes in brain chemistry, overactive stress response.
• Environmental factors: Trauma, childhood neglect, ongoing life stress, substance misuse.
• Medical contributors: Thyroid problems, arrhythmias, chronic illnesses.
• Risk factors:

Family history of anxiety or mood disorders

Childhood trauma or stressful life events

Coexisting conditions (depression, substance use)

Personality traits such as high sensitivity or low coping ability

See a healthcare professional if anxiety is constant, disproportionate to situations, or disrupts work, school, or relationships. Immediate help is needed if anxiety is accompanied by panic attacks, chest pain, fainting, severe insomnia, or thoughts of self-harm.