Anxiety is a common behavioral health concern, affecting 18% of adults in the United States. But how do you know if you’re experiencing anxiety? While it’s common to feel nerves and jitters, anxiety is much more than that. Here’s how you can spot anxiety symptoms–and what you can do about it.

How to Identify Anxiety

Signs of Anxiety to Look Out For

The signs of anxiety vary greatly. Each person experiences a different set of symptoms, so it can be helpful to know what to look for. Remember, seeing a mental health professional is the only way to get an accurate diagnosis.

Here are some signs to look for in the meantime:

• Emotional & Behavioral Signs: Individuals with anxiety often feel worried and restless. You might have difficulty concentrating and controlling your thoughts. It’s common to feel irritable, socially withdrawn, and fearful. You might have anxiety or panic attacks as well.
• Physical Signs: Anxiety also appears with physical symptoms. You might notice that your heart is racing, your breath feels shallow, and your muscles are tense. Individuals with anxiety might experience headaches, numbness or tingling, digestive issues, and fatigue.

Again, the symptoms of anxiety can look drastically different for everyone. If you suspect that you may be experiencing anxiety, it’s time to get the help you need.

What to Do Next

Anxiety may affect your life, but it doesn’t have to define it. Help is available. Behavioral therapy for anxiety is a great place to start. A behavioral health clinic will recommend the next steps, which may include the following:

• Get a Diagnosis: Once you have a diagnosis of anxiety, you can start the right behavioral healthcare services for you. Your mental health support team will likely recommend a psychological assessment to determine that you’re indeed experiencing anxiety. There are several types of anxiety disorders, so pinpointing the exact type will curate your treatment even more.
• Start Counseling: The right therapist will make all the difference in your anxiety treatment. During your counseling session, you can discuss your struggles and adopt new coping tools. Your counselor will provide a safe and confidential space for you to heal and grow.
• Stick to Your Medication: Your therapist may refer you to a psychiatrist to discuss anxiety medication as part of your treatment plan. If they prescribe daily anxiety medication, make sure you take it as directed. Your medication should help keep your symptoms in check. And if it isn’t, your psychiatrist can adjust your prescription.
• Consider Lifestyle Changes: Managing your anxiety is often a 24/7 task, and this may require you to change your lifestyle. Slowing down, examining sources of stress, and finding healthy outlets are all shifts that can supplement your anxiety treatment. Your therapist will help you find ways to make your life less anxiety-inducing.

The behavioral health professionals at SOL Mental Health are proud to offer holistic treatment plans for anxiety. Through counseling, psychiatry, and wellness support, we curate anxiety treatment based on each client’s needs. Located in Denver, CO, our team specializes in a variety of other mental health concerns as well. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

Does My Insurance Cover a Therapist at SOL Mental Health?

SOL Mental Health is partnered with several insurance providers to make our services more accessible to you. You can verify your insurance through our website before scheduling an appointment.