Symptoms and Diagnosing

People use a number of different words for anxiety, such as stress, nerves, being wound up, or panic. Symptoms of anxiety may be different for everyone, however common symptoms include:

• constant worry or fear
• trouble concentrating
• feeling tense or jumpy
• irritability or easily agitated
• feeling your heart pounding
• sweating
• tense muscles
• an upset stomach
• shortness of breath

You may also find it difficult to be in social situations or leave the house. If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms above, it is important to talk with your primary care provider or a behavioral health provider and get assessed. 

There are different types of anxiety and related disorders. Some of the most common diagnoses are generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and agoraphobia. Trauma and stressor-related disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, (known as PTSD), acute stress disorder and adjustment disorder may also include high levels of anxiety. Talk with your provider about treatment options for your specific diagnosis.