When worry becomes too much: 8 potential signs of an anxiety disorder

It is not unusual to experience feelings of anxiety or worry from time to time, but for some people these feelings can be ongoing and debilitating.

Anxiety is a normal part of life, and so it may not always be simple to distinguish when it may have developed into an unhealthy preoccupation.

“In small doses, anxiety can help protect us from danger and help focus our attention when tasks need to be completed. However, when these reactions occur too frequently and are more severe, they can begin to affect our work performance, relationships and quality of life,” said Sindisiwe Mlotshwa, a counselling psychologist who practices at Akeso Parktown in Johannesburg.

When worry and anxiety begin to manifest to the point where they are becoming unmanageable, the person could be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

According to Mlotshwa, while there are different types of anxiety disorders, if your anxious experiences are becoming intolerable there are certain signs you should take note of.

These include:

1. Uncontrollable worry, 2. Excessive nervousness, 3. Sleep problems, 4. Muscle tension, 5. Poor concentration, 6. Increased heart rate, 7. Upset stomach, 8. Avoidance of situations that may cause fear, or the fear itself.

“For example, if a person has anxiety about driving in traffic, this may be helpful if it promotes more cautious driving behaviour. If anxiety is making you so cautious that you are a danger to other drivers by driving too slow, fast or indecisively for instance, or if you avoid driving at all, then the anxiety has become a problem. If the person’s anxiety leads them to stop going to work or visiting friends and family because they do not want to travel in a vehicle, then the anxiety is disrupting their life,” she notes.

Mlotshwa says there are multiple types of anxiety disorders, including social anxieties or social phobia, separation anxieties and panic attacks.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the techniques psychologists most frequently use when treating anxiety disorders.

“Through CBT, unhealthy thinking patterns that elevate anxiety levels are identified and challenged. Often, CBT will also include elements of exposure therapy and relaxation techniques.”

Exposure therapy, which should only ever be undertaken with a trained professional, involves slow and gradual exposure to whatever is triggering the client’s anxiety, with the aim of diminishing their distress.

“Psychiatrists may prescribe anti-anxiety medication to help address the chemical causes of anxiety within the body. Medication should only ever be taken exactly as prescribed, and it is important not to stop taking psychiatric medicine without first consulting your treating doctor, even if you are feeling better,” Mlotshwa advises.

In the event of a psychological crisis, emergency support can be reached on 0861 435787 – 24 hours a day.

If one seeks information about mental health services, accessing care, information about mental health issues, or are in an emotional crisis, Akeso is here to help.

You can contact us on info@akeso.co.za; visit www.akeso.co.za; or book psychologist and occupational therapist consultations via www.copetherapy.co.za and psychiatrist consultations through Netcare appointmed™, online at www.netcareappointmed.co.za or by calling 0861 555 565.

The COPE Therapy website www.copetherapy.co.za also contains many useful blog posts on various issues and tips relating to mental health.

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