WHAT IS IT?

Anxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance. Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Anxiety Disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness, and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental health disorders and affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their life.

Anxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, school work and personal relationships can be affected. There are different kinds of anxiety disorders.

SIGNS OF AN ANXIETY DISORDER?

Some anxiety signs and symptoms include: feeling nervious, having a sense of impending danger or panic, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, feeling weak, trouble concetrating, trouble sleeping, gastrointestial problems, difficulty controlling worry, and having the urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety.

HOW CAN I PREVENT ANXIETY?

Anxiety is like many other mental health conditions, it can be harder to treat if you wait so get help early. Stay active by participating in activities you enjoy and make you feel good about yourself. Avoid alcohol and drug use as they can worsen anxiety.

WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR?

You should see a doctor if: your fear or anxiety is upsetting you and difficult to control, you feel depressed, have trouble with alcohol or drug use, or have suicidal thoughts- if this is the case you should seek emergency treatment immediately.