How can I tell if I have an anxiety disorder?

Everyone has experienced anxiety at some point in their lives. It is often temporary and people are able to identify the source of their unease (such as feeling anxious before taking an important test, flying in an airplane or attending a job interview). These feelings are very common and do not mean that you have an anxiety disorder. If, however, you feel extremely anxious on a regular or even daily basis without a logical reason, it is quite possible that you have an anxiety disorder.

How common are anxiety disorders among women?

About 40 million Americans are affected by anxiety disorders. In many cases, anxiety disorders affect women more often than men. However, some disorders ‑- such as generalized anxiety disorder ‑- affect men and women almost equally.

Is it possible that I might have more than one anxiety disorder?

Yes. If you're diagnosed with one form of anxiety disorder, there's a good chance that you may be diagnosed with a second type of anxiety disorder. In addition, many people with anxiety disorders are also diagnosed with other disorders, such as depression and eating disorders.

What is the most common symptom of anxiety disorders?

People with anxiety disorders experience intense anxiety on a regular basis that is not rational or not proportional to the situation. Symptoms related to anxiety disorders may differ slightly depending on the type of disorder. For example, people with panic disorder may experience panic attacks that include rapid heartbeat, heavy perspiration and shortness of breath, whereas those with obsessive-compulsive disorder may find themselves unable to stop thinking certain thoughts or performing certain rituals repeatedly, to the point that the rituals become extremely time consuming and greatly interfere with their everyday lives.