Everyone experiences anxiety occasionally, and in mild to moderate amounts, it can be beneficial by helping you focus your attention, energy and motivation. However, severe, ongoing anxiety is a genuine mental health disorder and a cause for concern because it leads to irrational fears that are disproportionate to the circumstances at hand. Learn more about what symptoms might indicate an anxiety disorder and how to seek help.

How to Get an Anxiety Diagnosis

A health professional can diagnose you with an anxiety disorder if your worries regularly interfere with your quality of life, relationships and ability to interact with the world around you. Examples of out-of-control anxiety disorder symptoms include the following.

You decide not to apply for a new job opportunity because you are too afraid to go through with the interview process.
You have recurring, unpredictable panic attacks.
Fatigue and insomnia are frequent problems for you.
It’s challenging for you to focus on daily tasks because you can’t concentrate.
You can’t shake the feeling that something terrible is about to happen to you or a loved one.
You feel constantly tense and on edge, which makes you unable to relax.
You struggle with repetitive, intrusive flashbacks to a specific traumatic event.
You spend hours each day doing repetitive actions like cleaning, checking or counting items.
The idea of going out and meeting new people is overwhelming.
You have physical pain like headaches, stomachaches and muscle aches resulting from the tension you hold in your body.

Risk Factors for Anxiety

Anxiety can happen to anyone, regardless of your age, gender identity, health history or background. Many people who have an anxiety disorder report they have felt tense, nervous and edgy for as long as they can remember. Mental illnesses have a genetic component, so if someone in your family has a disorder like OCD or social anxiety, you might be more likely to develop anxiety, too.

There is an unmistakable correlation between anxiety disorders and co-occurring health issues like depression and drug addiction. According to statistics from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 7.7 million American adults have a dual diagnosis.

Overcoming an Anxiety Disorder

Though there’s no known cure for anxiety or a dual diagnosis, you can learn to manage your symptoms by working with a therapist. The elements of your treatment plan will be unique to you, but may include tools like meditation, breathing exercises, cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes like exercising and eating a balanced diet.

At Pillars Recovery, our accredited program addresses co-occurring mental health disorders and addiction concurrently because we understand how these problems can prevent you from living your life to the fullest. With the tools we provide at our Southern California rehab, you’ll be on your way to enjoying improved health and happiness. When you’re ready to begin your journey, contact us online or call 866-793-8302 to learn more about your available treatment options.