15 Signs You May Have an Anxiety Disorder
Everyone feels anxious sometimes — before a job interview, during Atlanta rush-hour traffic, or when facing a big life decision. But when worry becomes constant, overwhelming, and hard to control, it may signal an anxiety disorder. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, GA, we help patients distinguish between normal stress and clinical anxiety that deserves treatment.
How to Recognize When Anxiety Has Crossed a Line
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the United States, affecting over 40 million adults. Yet many people don't realize what they're experiencing has a name — and effective treatments. Here are 15 signs to watch for:
- Persistent muscle tension — especially in your neck, shoulders, and jaw, even when you're not physically active.
- Excessive worrying — you replay worst-case scenarios for hours and can't seem to stop, even when you know it's irrational.
- Irritability that seems disproportionate — small inconveniences feel like major crises.
- Difficulty concentrating — your mind feels foggy or you can't focus on tasks at work or home.
- Sleep problems — racing thoughts keep you up, or you wake at 3 AM unable to fall back asleep.
- Fatigue despite adequate rest — anxiety is mentally exhausting, leaving you drained even after a full night's sleep.
- Avoiding social situations — you skip gatherings, cancel plans, or dread events you used to enjoy.
- Digestive issues — nausea, stomach cramps, or IBS-like symptoms that worsen with stress.
- Heart palpitations or chest tightness — your heart races or pounds without physical exertion.
- Shortness of breath — you feel like you can't get a full breath, especially during stressful moments.
- Perfectionism that paralyzes — the fear of making mistakes prevents you from starting or finishing tasks.
- Needing constant reassurance — you frequently ask others if things are "okay" or seek validation for decisions.
- Feeling a sense of dread — an unexplained feeling that something bad is about to happen.
- Difficulty making decisions — even minor choices feel overwhelming because you fear choosing wrong.
- Physical restlessness — pacing, fidgeting, or an inability to sit still.
When Should You Seek Help?
If several of these signs resonate and they've persisted for six months or longer, affecting your work, relationships, or quality of life, it's time to talk to a professional. Anxiety disorders respond well to treatment — including medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, or a combination approach.
Anxiety Treatment in Gwinnett County
Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C at Next Step Psychiatry provide thorough psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management for anxiety disorders. Serving Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Snellville, Tucker, and the greater Atlanta area. Call 678-437-1659 to schedule your evaluation today.