As humans, we all experience anxiety from time to time. Some people become anxious in crowds, others may fear public speaking and still others may fear the number 13, known as triskaidekaphobia.
According to the DSM-5-TR, there are 11 specifically defined and recognized anxiety disorders, each with their own diagnostic criteria. Anxiety in and of itself is not necessarily a bad thing. Only when it becomes disruptive in the functioning of an individual for a set period of time does it become an anxiety disorder.
Some common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:
- Feeling restless, nervous, or tense
- Experiencing feelings of impending doom
- Feeling panicked
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Feeling tired
- Trouble concentrating
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Uncontrollable worry
- Sleep issues
- Avoiding places or things that may trigger anxiety
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (2022), “anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults age 18 and older every year.” Last year, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent health panel (Goff, 2022), made a recommendation for all U.S. adults aged 64 and under be screened for anxiety, even pregnant and postpartum women, due to the impact that anxiety can have on one’s health.
The good news is anxiety is very treatable. Treatment recommendations may vary per individual, but common treatments include psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, relaxation, and desensitization therapies (USPSTF, 2022).
If you or someone you love is struggling with a behavioral health or substance use concern, please contact UofL Health – Peace Hospital at 502-451-3333 for a no-cost level-of-care assessment and assistance with treatment options.
ADAA (2022). https://Adaa.org/Understanding-Anxiety/Facts-Statistics
Goff, Kacie. (2022, September 23). Adults Under 64 Should Be Screened for Anxiety, According to Health Panel. CNET. https://www.Cnet.com/Health/Mental/Grounding-Techniques-to-Manage-Anxiety/
US Preventive Services Task Force. (2022, September 20). Screening for Anxiety in Adults. Draft Recommendation: Screening for Anxiety in Adults | United States Preventive Services Taskforce (uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org)
