What is Anxiety? A Guide to Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

July 9th, 2024

Many people are familiar with the term "anxiety" and have a general understanding of what it means. However, some individuals may not fully grasp what anxiety truly is or might have misconceptions about its definition and symptoms. Understanding anxiety disorders involves recognizing them as more than just occasional worry or stress, but as a complex emotional state that can significantly impact daily life and well-being.

Accurately understanding anxiety is crucial for recognizing when you or others are experiencing it. This knowledge helps in identifying symptoms early and allows for timely intervention.

Furthermore, knowing what can trigger anxiety prepares you to handle potentially stressful situations more effectively. By being aware of the causes and signs of anxiety, you can better manage your mental health and support those around you.

Keep reading to learn what anxiety really is, what causes anxiety, possible treatment options, and so much more!

What is Anxiety?

First things first, you may be asking yourself the question “what is anxiety?”. Anxiety is a natural response to stress and can be beneficial in some situations, as it helps us to stay alert and prepared.

However, when anxiety becomes excessive or persistent, it can interfere with daily life and well-being. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It involves both physical and emotional responses.

May occur before an imminent event.
May occur regarding an uncertain outcome.
Often occurs in the absence of an imminent threat (whereas fear occurs in the presence of an imminent threat).

Common Anxiety Symptoms

Anxiety can manifest in various ways, affecting both the mind and body. It can involve only one or multiple of these symptoms at once. Here are some common symptoms associated with anxiety:

Emotional Symptoms

Persistent Worry: Experiencing constant and excessive worry about everyday situations, even when there is no apparent reason for concern.
Fear and Apprehension: Feelings of dread or impending doom, often without a clear cause.
Irritability: Increased sensitivity and agitation, often leading to frustration and anger over minor issues.
Restlessness: A feeling of being on edge, unable to relax, or sitting still.

Physical Symptoms

Increased Heart Rate: Palpitations or a racing heart, which can occur even in the absence of physical exertion.
Sweating: Excessive sweating, particularly in stressful situations or without any physical activity.
Trembling and Shaking: Involuntary shaking or trembling, often noticeable in the hands or legs.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, feeling like you can’t catch your breath, or experiencing tightness in the chest.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Feeling faint, unsteady, or like the room is spinning.
Fatigue: Chronic tiredness or exhaustion, even after a full night’s sleep.
Muscle Tension: Persistent tightness, soreness, or aches in muscles, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back.

Cognitive Symptoms

Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks, easily distracted, and difficulty remembering things.
Mind Going Blank: Episodes where it feels like the mind goes blank and it’s hard to think clearly.
Overthinking: Excessive ruminating on worst-case scenarios or overanalyzing situations.

Behavioral Symptoms

Avoidance: Steering clear of situations or places that might trigger anxiety, even if they are part of everyday life.
Compulsions: Engaging in repetitive behaviors or rituals in an attempt to reduce anxiety.
Restlessness: An inability to sit still, often manifesting as fidgeting or pacing.

Sleep Disturbances

Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up frequently during the night.
Nightmares: Experiencing intense, distressing dreams that can disrupt sleep. Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety Symptoms

What Does Anxiety Feel Like?

Experiencing anxiety can vary greatly from person to person, but there are common sensations and feelings that many people report. Individuals with anxiety often describe it as a feeling of being trapped in a cycle of worry and fear. It can feel like a storm brewing inside, with no way to calm the turbulent emotions. Some compare it to having an alarm system in their body that constantly goes off, even when there is no real danger.

Emotional Sensations

Overwhelming Worry: A persistent feeling of unease or dread that can dominate your thoughts, making it difficult to focus on anything else.
Fear and Panic: Intense, often irrational fears that can lead to panic attacks, where you might feel like you’re losing control or in danger even when there is no real threat.
Nervousness: A constant state of nervous energy, where you feel jumpy or on edge.

Physical Sensations

Racing Heart: A rapid heartbeat or palpitations, often accompanied by a feeling of tightness in the chest.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of being suffocated.
Sweating and Trembling: Excessive sweating, trembling, or shaking, particularly in stressful situations.
Muscle Tension: Tight, sore muscles, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady on your feet.
Stomach Issues: Nausea, stomach cramps, or digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Cognitive Sensations

Racing Thoughts: An inability to control or slow down your thoughts, often jumping from one worry to another.
Concentration Problems: Difficulty focusing on tasks, feeling easily distracted or forgetful.
Hypervigilance: Being overly aware of your surroundings and constantly on the lookout for potential threats.

Behavioral Sensations

Avoidance: Steering clear of situations or activities that might trigger anxiety, even if they are part of daily life.
Restlessness: An inability to sit still, often manifesting as fidgeting or pacing.
Real-Life Descriptions.

Anxiety Categories

Anxiety can manifest in various forms, primarily categorized into cognitive anxiety and somatic anxiety. Understanding these different categories can help in identifying and addressing the specific ways anxiety affects individuals.

What is Cognitive Anxiety?

Cognitive anxiety involves mental processes and how anxiety affects thoughts and mental states. Basically, this type of anxiety involves the mental manifestations of anxiety.

Here are a few common characteristics of cognitive anxiety:

Persistent Worry
Racing Thoughts
Concentration Issues
Negative Thinking
Memory Problems
Repetitive thinking

Examples of cognitive anxiety:

Pre-Exam Nerves: Students may experience cognitive anxiety before exams, leading to worries about performance and future implications.
Work Stress: Professionals may have persistent concerns about job performance, deadlines, or workplace relationships.

What is Somatic Anxiety?

Somatic anxiety refers to the type of anxiety that involves the physical symptoms that accompany anxiety, affecting the body. This is often what people refer to when thinking and describing anxiety, and what most people tend to notice more when experiencing anxiety.

Here are a few common characteristics of somatic anxiety:

Sweaty palms
Butterflies in stomach or upset stomach
Headaches
Muscle tension
Dizziness
Increased heart rate

Examples of somatic anxiety:

Performance Anxiety: Athletes or performers may experience somatic anxiety before events, leading to physical symptoms like trembling or nausea.
Social Situations: Individuals may feel physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating or shaking, when faced with social interactions or public speaking.

What Are The Different Types of Anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear and anxiety. Each type has unique symptoms and triggers. Here are some of the most common anxiety disorders:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

General anxiety disorder involves chronic and excessive worry about various aspects of daily life, such as health, work, social interactions, and everyday routine life circumstances.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms: Persistent anxiety, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear and discomfort.

Panic Disorder Symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and fear of losing control or impending doom.

Social anxiety disorder (previously called social phobia) involves intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one may be scrutinized by others.

Social Anxiety Disorder Symptoms: Fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social interactions, leading to avoidance of social situations.

Phobias are intense fears of specific objects or situations that pose little to no actual danger.

Specific Phobias: Fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., heights, spiders, flying).
Agoraphobia: Fear of being in places where escape might be difficult or help unavailable during a panic attack.
Social Phobia: Same as Social Anxiety Disorder, it causes avoidance of the phobic object or situation with intense fear or anxiety upon exposure.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Commonly seen in children, this disorder involves excessive fear or anxiety about being separated from attachment figures.

Symptoms: Distress when anticipating or experiencing separation, worry about losing attachment figures, reluctance to go out or sleep away from home.

Selective Mutism

Selective mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak in certain social situations despite speaking in others. This is an extremely rare condition.

Symptoms: Consistent failure to speak in specific social situations (e.g., school) despite speaking in other situations (e.g., at home).

Hypochondriasis (Health Anxiety)

Hypochondriasis, now commonly referred to as illness anxiety disorder, involves excessive worry about having a serious illness.

Symptoms: Frequent checking for signs of illness, high health-related anxiety, seeking frequent medical reassurance despite no serious health issues.

What Causes Anxiety?

It is important to realize that experiencing anxiety is a completely normal part of being human. Humans have been experiencing anxiety for thousands and thousands of years, as this feeling of anxiety is protective and has been developed through years of evolution. Anxiety is often experienced when one is not sure of the outcome of a situation.

Ultimately, almost anything can cause anxiety and there is no one specific thing that causes anxiety. This is because much of anxiety depends on the perception of the individual. Some people may find certain situations anxiety-provoking, whereas other individuals will not experience any anxiety in those same situations. But, do not be alarmed as anxiety is not all bad!

The Evolution of Anxiety

For years, as hunters and gatherers, humans would experience anxiety as they would be unsure of where they would get their food, where they would sleep, and about their future in general. Experiencing this anxiety would motivate them to hunt and gather food and find a safe shelter for protection.

Over the years, the experience of anxiety is the same, and the root cause of anxiety may be similar or completely different...

An Example of Root Cause of Anxiety Being Similar

People may be anxious over an upcoming job interview
They may be unsure of where they will find employment
Which is necessary for acquiring adequate food and shelter

An Example of Root Cause of Anxiety Being Different

People may be anxious about giving a present to a friend
This may be because they aren’t sure if their friend will like the present or not

Clearly, you can see the similarities and differences of the root causes of anxiety years ago as compared to now. Today, in present time, there may still be anxieties related to these basic core needs (survival), although they may present in different scenarios (preparing for a job interview).

Additionally, there are now numerous complex factors and situations that can trigger similar feelings of anxiety.

Anxiety Treatment Options

Anxiety is a treatable condition, and there are several effective treatment options available. The best approach depends on the individual's specific symptoms and circumstances. Your doctor can work with you to find the best treatment option for you. Here are some common anxiety treatment options:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is one of the most effective forms of therapy for anxiety. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.
Exposure Therapy: Often used for phobias and social anxiety, this therapy involves gradually exposing individuals to anxiety-provoking situations in a controlled way to reduce fear.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This therapy encourages individuals to accept their anxiety and commit to behavior changes that can improve their quality of life.

Anxiety Medication

Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed for anxiety and depression.
Benzodiazepines: These anti anxiety medications can provide quick relief for severe anxiety symptoms but are typically used for short-term treatment due to the risk of dependence.
Beta-Blockers: Often used to manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate and trembling, particularly in performance anxiety.
Buspirone: An anti-anxiety medication that can be used on a long-term basis and has fewer side effects compared to benzodiazepines.

Lifestyle Changes

Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety by releasing endorphins and improving overall mood.
Diet: Eating a balanced diet and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and sugar can help manage anxiety symptoms.
Sleep: Ensuring adequate and quality sleep is crucial for managing anxiety.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness Meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help individuals stay grounded and reduce the intensity of anxiety symptoms.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: This technique involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups to reduce physical tension.
Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises can activate the body’s relaxation response and reduce anxiety.

Support Groups

Peer Support: Joining support groups can provide individuals with a sense of community and shared experience, which can be very comforting and encouraging.
Online Forums: Virtual support groups and forums offer a space to connect with others dealing with similar issues.

How To Calm Anxiety

If you are experiencing anxiety, it may be helpful to think of what these feelings of anxiety are from. There is a chance that you can use the anxiety to your benefit, to motivate or push you to be better, or to get tasks completed.

Anxiety can be overwhelming, but there are various strategies and techniques that can help calm your mind and body. Here are some effective methods to reduce anxiety:

Practice Deep Breathing

Technique: Focus on taking slow, deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Benefits: Deep breathing helps activate the body’s relaxation response, lowering heart rate and reducing tension.

Engage in Physical Activity

Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, can help reduce anxiety by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
Benefits: Exercise not only helps manage anxiety but also improves overall mental health and well-being.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness: Focus on the present moment without judgment. Techniques include mindful breathing, body scan, and mindful observation.
Meditation: Regular meditation practice can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Benefits: Mindfulness and meditation promote relaxation and enhance emotional regulation.

Use Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Technique: Gradually tense and then relax different muscle groups in your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head.
Benefits: This technique helps release physical tension and promotes a sense of calm.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, which can exacerbate anxiety.
Sleep: Ensure you get adequate sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep routine to improve sleep quality.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Limit Exposure to Stressors

Media: Reduce exposure to news and social media if it contributes to your anxiety.
Environment: Create a calming environment at home and work by minimizing clutter and noise.

Connect with Others

Support Network: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your feelings and experiences.
Professional Help: Consider seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, who can provide guidance and support.

Engage in Relaxing Activities

Hobbies: Participate in activities that you enjoy, such as reading, gardening, or playing a musical instrument.
Nature: Spend time outdoors in nature, which can have a calming effect on the mind.

If you feel the anxiety you are experiencing is detrimental, make sure to reach out to a friend or family member and talk about it. We also suggest you reach out to a health care professional such as a psychiatrist or therapist that specializes in anxiety disorder.

Popular Anxiety Medications & How They Work

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Examples: Sertraline (Zoloft), Fluoxetine (Prozac), Escitalopram (Lexapro)
How They Work: SSRIs increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Pros: Often the first-line treatment for anxiety due to their effectiveness and relatively mild side effects.
Cons: May take several weeks to start working; common side effects include nausea, headache, and sexual dysfunction.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Examples: Venlafaxine (Effexor XR), Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
How They Work: SNRIs increase levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help regulate mood and anxiety.
Pros: Effective for both anxiety and depression; may work for people who don't respond to SSRIs.
Cons: Similar to SSRIs, they may take a few weeks to take effect; side effects can include insomnia, nausea, and increased blood pressure.

Benzodiazepines

Examples: Alprazolam (Xanax), Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan)
How They Work: Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain.
Pros: Fast-acting; effective for acute anxiety and panic attacks.
Cons: Potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms; typically used for short-term treatment.

Buspirone

How It Works: Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication that affects serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain.
Pros: Less sedating than benzodiazepines; lower risk of dependence.
Cons: May take several weeks to become fully effective; side effects can include dizziness, headache, and nausea.

Beta-Blockers

Examples: Propranolol (Inderal), Atenolol (Tenormin)
How They Work: Beta-blockers reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling, by blocking the effects of adrenaline.
Pros: Effective for situational anxiety, such as performance anxiety.
Cons: Not typically used for long-term treatment of anxiety disorders; side effects can include fatigue and dizziness.

Can Anxiety Be Beneficial?

While anxiety is often seen as a negative experience, it can actually have some beneficial aspects, particularly when it is experienced in moderate amounts (after all this is why anxiety has persisted through years and years of evolution – because there are benefits to it).

Enhances Performance

Motivation: Anxiety can serve as a motivator to prepare and perform well. For example, feeling anxious before a test or presentation can push individuals to study harder or practice more, leading to better outcomes.
Focus and Attention: A moderate level of anxiety can heighten awareness and focus, allowing individuals to pay more attention to details and avoid potential mistakes.

Promotes Survival

Fight or Flight Response: Anxiety triggers the body's fight or flight response, which prepares individuals to react quickly in dangerous situations. This physiological reaction is crucial for survival, enabling people to either confront threats or escape from them effectively.
Risk Assessment: Anxiety helps individuals assess risks and make cautious decisions, reducing the likelihood of engaging in harmful activities.

Encourages Personal Growth

Self-Reflection: Experiencing anxiety can lead to self-reflection and a deeper understanding of personal triggers and stressors. This awareness can foster personal growth and the development of coping strategies.
Resilience Building: Overcoming anxious feelings in challenging situations can build resilience and increase confidence in one's ability to handle future stressors.

Empathy and Compassion: Anxiety can enhance empathy and compassion, as individuals who experience anxiety may be more attuned to the emotions and needs of others, fostering stronger social connections and support networks.

When To Seek Help For Anxiety

Anxiety is a common experience, but when it becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily life, it’s important to take action. If you are experiencing persistent or severe symptoms that interfere with your daily life, it is best to seek professional help.

Additionally, if self-help techniques like mindfulness, exercise, or relaxation methods are not alleviating your anxiety symptoms, please speak to your doctor.

Leading Anxiety therapists & Psychiatrist in Chicago

At Clarity Clinic, we understand that anxiety can significantly impact your quality of life. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to help treat your anxiety.

Our licensed therapists and board-certified psychiatrists specialize in treating various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and more.

We offer a range of services, from individual therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to medication management, ensuring a well rounded approach to your mental health.

Services we offer:

Individual Therapy: One-on-one psychotherapy sessions with our skilled therapists to help you manage anxiety and develop practical solutions.
Group Therapy: Join others who are experiencing similar challenges in a supportive group setting.
Medication Management: Our psychiatrists will work with you to find the most effective anxiety medications and monitor your progress.
Online Therapy: For your convenience, we offer online therapy and psychiatry services, allowing you to receive care from the comfort of your home.

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, don't wait to seek help. Get the best anxiety treatment at Clarity Clinic, we're here to support you every step of the way. Visit our mental health clinics located in the Loop, River North, Evanston, Arlington Heights, and Lakeview Broadway today! Contact us to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards a healthier, happier life.

Book an Anxiety Consultation

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