What is anxiety?
Anxiety is what we feel when we are worried, tense, or afraid – particularly about things that are about to happen, or that we think could happen in the future. Anxiety is a natural human response when we feel that we are under threat. It can be experienced through our thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Most people feel anxious at times. It's particularly common to experience some anxiety while coping with stressful events or changes, especially if they could have a big impact on your life.
When is anxiety a mental health problem?
Anxiety can become a mental health problem if it impacts your ability to live your life as fully as you want to. For example, it may be a problem if:
- your feelings of anxiety are very strong or last for a long time
- your fears or worries are out of proportion to the situation
- you avoid situations that might cause you to feel anxious
- your worries feel very distressing or are hard to control
- you regularly experience symptoms of anxiety, which could include panic attacks
- you find it hard to go about your everyday life or do things you enjoy.
If your symptoms fit a particular set of medical criteria then you might be diagnosed with a particular anxiety disorder. But it's also possible to experience problems with anxiety without having a specific diagnosis.
You can help prevent anxiety attacks:
- Avoid caffeine, especially in coffees, teas, colas, energy drinks, and chocolate. Caffeine can keep you in a tense, aroused condition. For more information, see the topic of Healthy Eating.
- Do not smoke or use smokeless (spit) tobacco products. Nicotine stimulates many physical and psychological processes, causes your blood vessels to constrict, and makes your heart work harder. For more information, see the topic Quitting Smoking.
- Exercise during the day. Even a brisk walk around the block may help you stay calm. For more information, see the topic Fitness.
Talk with your doctor about your symptoms of anxiety or panic. A licensed counselor or other health professionals can help you find ways to reduce your symptoms with techniques such as biofeedback, hypnosis, or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
