Everyday worry or an anxiety disorder?
Everyone worries. Here's how professionals tell ordinary worry apart from anxiety that needs support, and what to do next.
Worry is part of being human. A little anxiety before an exam or interview can even sharpen your focus. So when does it become something more?
What professionals look for
Clinicians generally ask three questions:
- How much? Is the worry out of proportion to the situation?
- How long? Has it been most days for weeks or months, not just a tough week?
- How much does it get in the way? Is it affecting sleep, studies, work or relationships?
Anxiety disorders also often come with physical signs: a racing heart, tight chest, restlessness, trouble sleeping, stomach upsets. The World Health Organization estimates that anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide.
A quick self-check
The GAD-7 is a short, widely used questionnaire for anxiety symptoms over the last two weeks. You'll find it free in the Psych AI app. It's a screening tool, not a diagnosis. A high score is a good reason to speak with a doctor, psychologist or counsellor.
What helps
Anxiety is very treatable. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have strong evidence, and sometimes medicine prescribed by a psychiatrist helps too. Regular sleep, movement and cutting back on caffeine support recovery.
If you're struggling right now, you don't have to wait. In India you can call Tele-MANAS on 14416, free and 24×7.
Sources
- World Health Organization. Anxiety disorders: fact sheet (2023). www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anxiety-disorders
- Spitzer RL, Kroenke K, Williams JBW, Löwe B (2006). A brief measure for assessing generalized anxiety disorder: the GAD-7. Archives of Internal Medicine, 166(10), 1092-1097. doi.org/10.1001/archinte.166.10.1092
- Tele-MANAS, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. telemanas.mohfw.gov.in
This article is for general education and isn't medical advice. If you're worried about your mental health, please speak to a qualified professional. In India, Tele-MANAS (14416) is free and open 24×7.