Most people know what anxiety feels like. It’s that feeling of dread when you know you have an uncomfortable meeting planned, or those moments of feeling restless because you are worried about your doctor’s appointment. Most of the time, anxiety is normal and expected.
Anxiety is your brain’s way of preparing for intense situations. It may help you handle difficult situations by boosting your energy levels when you need them most or by helping you focus.
What happens when that type of anxiousness is around you all of the time, though? You may not even be sure what is behind it. You feel tired, restless, and overwhelmed all of the time. That could mean you are struggling with an anxiety disorder.
What Is Anxiety a Disorder?
Anxiety disorders are conditions in which you experience anxiety that does not go away and may even get worse over time. It impacts your day-to-day life in various ways, such as making work hard or impacting schoolwork. Many people find that anxiety influences perceptions of others and makes relationships tough.
About 40 million adults in the U.S. suffer from one of several anxiety disorders. That’s about 19.1% of the population. Here’s the really good news. Most anxiety disorders are treatable, meaning you do not have to live with these symptoms long term, and in many situations, you can get help through care that’s tailored to your preferences, such as talk therapy or medications.
Signs You May Have an Anxiety Disorder
If you are facing any of the following symptoms, you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Remember that any time you feel prolonged symptoms of being anxious, you can reach out for immediate help. Our team at Willow Creek is happy to help you in those difficult times.
Common signs of anxiety disorders include:
- Anxious thoughts and beliefs that are hard to control. You may know that the concern you have isn’t realistic, but you have no way to control your racing thoughts.
- Feelings of restlessness. It is common to experience feelings of tension, restlessness, and difficulty calming down during a portion of your day. You may find that these feelings do not go away.
- Physical symptoms include a pounding heartbeat, rapid breathing, which often leads to shortness of breath, dizziness, and other unexplained pain.
- Withdrawing from activities. Many people find that anxiety makes them feel like they should not do something. You may no longer spend time with people because of this, or you may no longer engage in activities you enjoy.
- Changes in your behavior are a sign that something is not okay. If you are struggling to get through the day or feeling like you cannot control negative thoughts, it could be due to an anxiety disorder.
- Excessive worrying. Simply, you are worried about something all of the time. It could be people, things, experiences, or events. Most notably, the level of worry does not really align with the reality of the situation.
- Trouble concentrating. Many people find it difficult to complete tasks because their minds wander. You may find it challenging to focus, concentrate, and make decisions.
It’s important to remember that anxiety disorders are not always front and center in your life. You may feel like things improve for a time and then escalate again. Even if you are unsure if you have an anxiety disorder, it’s wise to reach out for a consultation.
Types of Anxiety Disorders We Can Help You With
At Willow Creek, you can expect to find treatment for anxiety disorders readily available to you. Through our Acute Psychiatric Inpatient Program, we can help you navigate complications that come from:
- Generalized anxiety disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Social phobia
When you feel like life is particularly challenging and you’re unsure what to do, reach out to us for help. Let us help you separate the reality and support your recovery. Anxiety can be brought on by untreated trauma or from learned behavior that develops over time. It is not your fault, and it is certainly not something you have to live with. The difference is in what you do now.
Seek Out Help From Our Treatment Center for Anxiety Disorders
If you are facing a mental health crisis, call 911 now. Our team at Willow Creek Behavioral Health also offers 24/7 no-cost, confidential assessments that can provide you with critical support. Serving all of Green Bay and much of Wisconsin, we are here to help you navigate anxiety disorders with confidence.
