The difference between normative anxiety and anxiety disorders.

It’s very common to hear the term ‘anxiety’ these days, with 1 in 4 people diagnosed with this in their lifetime. That’s no surprise given the last few years, where we’ve faced the continual impacts of COVID-19, natural disasters, the terrors of war and global chaos. However, there is a difference between feeling anxious and experiencing an anxiety disorder – that means you can experience anxiety without necessarily being diagnosed as anxious.

Anxiety is your natural response state to stress. It’s a feeling of apprehension about what’s to come. The first day of a new job, meeting a new person or giving a speech may cause you to feel fearful and nervous. This type of anxiety is unpleasant; however, it will often motivate you to worker harder. It may come and go but doesn’t interfere with your everyday life. You will notice that once the anxiety-provoking situation is over, your anxiety will lessen.

In the case of an anxiety disorder, it may emerge unexpectedly, and you may feel like it’s never ending. It is intense and often debilitating. This type of anxiety might prevent you from attending social events, leaving your home, or engaging in work/school.

Why is it important to know the difference between feeling anxious and experiencing an anxiety disorder? Simply, so you know when to seek help and start implementing strategies to manage symptoms. Anxiety disorders are widely studied and there are many treatment options available so knowing when to approach a mental health professional for support is key.

Symptoms of anxiety

Everybody can experience anxiety slightly differently.

Common symptoms include:

-       Feeling faint or dizzy

-       Shortness of breath

-       Apprehension and worry

-       Chills or hot flushes

-       Restlessness

-       Distress and fear

-       Numbness or tingling

Remember, anxiety is a normal response to things that we find stressful. However, if you notice that you continue to feel this way after the stressful event is over, or you feel this way in the absence of a stressful event, it might be worth seeking support.

References:

1.     Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2018). National Health Survey: First Results 2017-18. Canberra: ABS 

2.     American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).