Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder

The symptoms of Anxiety Disorder can range from extreme or intense emotions, physical symptoms, or certain character behaviors.  Below we present you with a checklist of the signs and symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder, grouped according to these three experiential levels.

Emotional Signs and Symptoms 

• Irrational and crippling fear
• Excessive worrying
• Persistent self-doubt 
• An intolerance of uncertainty
• Feelings of panic, fear and uneasiness

Physical Signs and Symptoms 

• Insomnia or other forms of sleep problems, and sleep disorders such as frequent nightmares, restless leg syndrome, and bruxism (gnashing of teeth during sleep)
• Chronic pain, persistent and pervasive muscle tension, chest pains
• Gastrointestinal disorders, digestive problems, frequent urination, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Heart Disease or other forms of heart problems such as racing heartbeat and heart palpitations
• Respiratory problems and shortness of breath
• Allergic reactions
• Nausea and vomiting
• Chills, twitching, shaking, and hot flashes 
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness and fainting spells
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet

Behavioral or Medical Signs and Symptoms 

• Repeated panic attacks that are characterized by sudden and intense fear and helplessness, coupled with a racing heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, stomach pain, and breathing problems
• Extreme stage fright and self-consciousness in social situations as possible symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder
• Sudden flashbacks to a traumatic memory or event in the past
• Extreme and debilitating perfectionism
• Rituals that are comprised of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior
• Restlessness and the inability to be still and calm

In addition to the signs and symptoms enumerated above, there are certain lifestyle and environmental factors that can also contribute to a person having an Anxiety Disorder.  If you have experienced or are going through any of the following, there is a greater risk that what you are experiencing may already be classified as an Anxiety Disorder:

Contributory Factors:

• Substance and alcohol abuse
• Side effects of certain drugs such as those for high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid disorders
• Withdrawal symptoms due to cessation of drugs, alcohol, or any medication prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders
• Exposure to persistent and ongoing stressful environmental factors at work, school, or at home, or a specific triggering event characterized by high stress