Although everyone experiences feelings of fear (they help keep us safe!), consistent anxiety symptoms are often a sign to seek treatment. Do any of these statements sound familiar?

• Constantly worrying about a variety of topics
• Obsessing over a specific topic
• Uncontrollable racing thoughts
• Panic attacks (such as a racing heartbeat, difficulty breathing, shaking, sweating for no reason, muscle tension)
• Recurring intrusive thoughts or concerns
• Avoiding situations, people, or places because you feel out of control

What To Know About Anxiety

• Anxiety on its own is often not harmful. However, the long-term effects of anxiety (such as increased blood pressure), an increase in depressive symptoms, an avoidance of triggers, and/or a rise in medical visits can have a negative impact on your overall well-being.
• Anxiety is often described as your brain “mis-firing,” misreading signs of danger and leading you to believe you are not safe.
• Anxiety often looks different in other people. Your symptoms may not be the same as another patient’s. Anxiety may manifest as the inability to make a decision, irritability, or sleep disturbances.
• A variety of treatment methods can be used to help individuals reduce or recover from their anxiety-related symptoms.
• Anxiety disorders are incredibly common, and are diagnosed worldwide. There are an estimated 40 million people in America (roughly 19% of the population) living with anxiety disorders each year.