10 Common Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety can affect your thoughts, emotions and body. Everyone experiences anxiety differently, but there are some common symptoms that many people experience.Here are 10 common symptoms of anxiety to look out for.
1. Constant worrying
You may find yourself worrying repeatedly about everyday situations, future events or things that could go wrong, even when there isn't an obvious reason to worry.2. Racing thoughts
Your mind may feel like it won't switch off. You might jump from one worry to another or constantly replay conversations and situations in your head.3. Feeling restless or on edge
Anxiety can make it difficult to relax. You may feel unusually tense, restless or like you always need to be doing something.4. A racing heartbeat
Anxiety can trigger physical symptoms such as a fast or pounding heartbeat. This can sometimes make you worry that something is seriously wrong, which can increase the anxiety further.5. Feeling short of breath
You may feel like you can't get a satisfying breath, need to keep taking deep breaths or are unusually aware of your breathing.6. Feeling shaky or tense
Anxiety can cause trembling, muscle tension, sweating or a feeling of physical agitation.7. Difficulty concentrating
When your mind is occupied by worries, concentrating on work, conversations, reading or other everyday activities can become difficult.8. Avoiding situations
You may start avoiding places, people or situations because you're worried about feeling anxious or something going wrong.9. Problems sleeping
Anxiety can make it difficult to switch off at night. You may lie awake worrying, wake frequently or struggle to get restful sleep.10. Feeling that something bad is going to happen
Sometimes anxiety creates a strong sense that something is wrong or that something bad is about to happen, even when you can't identify a specific threat.When should you get help?
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time. However, if anxiety is persistent, becoming difficult to manage or interfering with your everyday life, consider speaking with your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.Having some of these symptoms doesn't automatically mean you have an anxiety disorder. Physical health conditions and other factors can sometimes cause similar symptoms.
Want to talk about anxiety?
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