There are times when even the calmest people feel anxious. Perhaps a major exam or work deadline is approaching, or you’re excited yet nervous about speaking in front of a large crowd. Anxiety is expected in these situations and might even help you meet a deadline or deliver a successful presentation. However, when anxiety is persistent, no amount of coping skills help; it calls for proper treatment and care.
If you resonate with any of the following indicators of persistent anxiety, it’s time to see a mental health professional.
Your anxiety is affecting your physical health
In certain cases, the mental toll of experiencing anxious thoughts may be worse than physical effects. However, if you struggle with anxiety, you may feel physical symptoms that drain your energy and make it difficult to go about your normal activities. Sleep disturbances, musculoskeletal pain, and gastrointestinal problems are all possible indicators.
It’s affecting your daily activities
If your anxiety symptoms are so severe that they make daily activities a struggle to get through, you might consider getting a professional diagnosis. Anxiety and fear associated with anxiety disorders can hurt your ability to perform in social, academic, and professional settings. A clinical diagnosis is essential if these effects are too severe.
You’ve been experiencing symptoms for over 6 months
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)is a chronic condition, so you’re likely in this for the long haul. If anxiety symptoms persist for at least six months, it’s time to get a professional diagnosis. However, if you experience occasional bouts of anxiousness, there might be a different cause at play. Nevertheless, discuss these symptoms with a psychiatric practitioner.
You’re taking on any anxiety medication
Anxiety can have several causes, including the side effects of medication (or drug abuse) or a physical health issue. These factors rule out the possibility of an anxiety disorder diagnosis. Instead, your doctor will work with you to treat the underlying medical condition that’s triggering your anxiety.
You’re anxious about several aspects of your life
People with GAD tend to worry excessively about several different things simultaneously. Worrying about things like keeping a job, staying well, and providing for a family when life gets hectic is normal. But if this worry becomes debilitating, you should take that as a sign to seek professional guidance.
Schedule a consultation with us today
At Natobe Healthcare, we offer comprehensive psychiatric telehealth services in Cook County, which address a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. We use HIPAA-compliant connections to securely connect patients with mental health professionals online, protecting the privacy of the doctor-patient relationship.
Schedule an appointment with us today. We’ll help you improve your mental health in no time.