According to information from The National Institute of Mental Health, there are more than 40 million people in the U.S. over the age of 18 who suffer from anxiety. That’s a lot of people. However, not all these individuals are actively seeking treatment for their condition. In fact, only about a third of those with an anxiety disorder are actually getting the treatment they need. There are quite a few reasons that a person may not be seeking this care, including being worried about what family and friends may think if they were to find out. Here you can learn about five signs that it is time to seek help for your anxiety and that you should no longer ignore the problem.
1. The Anxiety has Started Affecting Your Physical Health
Not only will an anxiety disorder affect your mental health, but it may also have an adverse effect on your overall physical health. For example, there are many anxiety disorders that are accompanied by issues such as heart disease, asthma, migraines and more. Additional physical symptoms you may have with anxiety include chest pain, shortness of breath, diarrhea, dizziness and stomach aches. There is absolutely no question that anxiety and stress can really do a number on your body. If you have another condition then the anxiety can exacerbate the symptoms of it, as well.
2. Your Anxiety has Begun to Affect You at Work (or School)
If you have to deal with any level of anxiety when you are at work or school, it can cause a great deal of pressure. For those who suddenly begin missing a lot of days, if they have to call in late regularly or having issues handling the day to day tasks, then it may be an indication that you need to get some help. The absolute last thing that you want to happen is that you lose your job due to your anxiety.
3. Your Anxiety has Started Affecting Your Relationships
A great way to determine if your anxiety is out of control is if you notice your loved ones – i.e. friends and family members – have begun to worry about you and your health. There are quite a few ways that anxiety may adversely affect any personal relationship you have. Some of these negative things that can happen include things such as communication issues, avoiding family and friends and going to social events and constant worry that manifests as jealousy to your partner. However, there is good news. Once you receive treatment for your anxiety, the relationship issues that you have been experiencing will resolve.
4. You have Begun Using Alcohol or Drugs to Help Self-Medicate Your Anxiety
According to information posted online, individuals who are addicted to drugs or alcohol are up to 50 percent more likely to suffer from some type of anxiety or mood disorder. There are quite a few people who begin suffering from severe anxiety and then start to use alcohol or drugs to help self-medicate the symptoms they have. However, the issue with this is that they may be developing an addiction that may wind up being life-threatening. If you are suffering from any type of addiction and anxiety, then it is imperative that you seek help.
5. Your Anxiety is Resulting in You Missing Out on Life
Anxiety can make it impossible for you to enjoy life. If you have noticed that this has happened to you, then you need to seek help. This is not an issue that is going to get better with time, in fact, it is one that is likely only going to get worse without professional intervention.
If you do seek treatment for your anxiety and you receive a prescription, you should use Pharmacy Online 365 to have your medication filled. Here you will find great prices and great service.
Consider prayer to help you manage your anxiety and fear. There are 20 verses in the Bible to remind us that we do not need to fear because the Lord is with us.