How do you know if you have an anxiety disorder? Doesn’t everyone suffer from anxiety? Yes, they do. However, people who have developed an anxiety disorder chronically suffer from extreme levels of anxiety. If you are living with a stressful situation then you might be having an anxiety attack, or even a panic attack. But that does not necessarily mean you have an anxiety disorder and should seek professional health.

First consider some internal symptoms of anxiety disorder. These are emotions and psychological symptoms that might go along with an anxiety disorder. Obviously, feelings of unfounded fear and worry are two sure symptoms, though if you are a parent or are undergoing stressful situations at the present time, this can be normal. Consider a few other symptoms, more specific ones you might be feeling inside.

Along with fear you might feel a certain apprehension or even dread in every day situations. It’s not just related to the welfare of family members (though that’s also a concern), rather you have a certain uneasiness wherever you go as if you need an escape. This would be a hint of agoraphobia. If you have ever had a sudden attack that has left you helpless and unguarded, to the point where you thought you were dying or losing your mind, then that’s a good sign of a developing panic disorder.

Self-consciousness and insecurity, particularly if you have a low self image of yourself are two other symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. Nervousness as well as a certain edgy or restless feeling is another symptom of general anxiety disorder. If you are becoming afraid of certain situations or objects, such as public interaction, and this has never been a problem before, than you could be developing a social phobia. Confusion, impaired concentration and hypervigilance are three more symptoms of general disorder, which might be attributed to anxiety. Lastly, irritability and behavioral problems (like misbehaving children where it’s uncharacteristic is another sign of a possible general anxiety disorder.

Physically speaking there are symptoms to look out for. Heart palpitations are one, along with chest pain and shortness of breath. These sudden and sharp pains can also make someone believe they’re having a heart attack. Other physical symptoms include chills or hot flashes, cold hands, nausea or diarrhea, shortness of breath, sweating, dizzy spells and tremors, headaches and muscle aches, fatigue and insomnia.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or observe them in others you know, then it’s possible that an anxiety disorder is developing. The best course of action is to speak to a physician just for a consultation. The first thing they will do is to check you for any physical problems, which could also be indicated by the above mentioned symptoms. Afterwards, they would refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for an evaluation. Getting professional advice is certainly not a commitment to anything, nor is it the beginning of a long and expensive therapy stage. A doctor could tell you what the problem might be and simply recommend a solution involving traditional medication, psychotherapy, or if it’s minor enough, even self help. The first and most helpful step is the professional consultation.