How to Know if You Have Anxiety

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the U.S. Yet only a fraction of those affected seek support, often because they don’t know what to look for.

Understanding the signs of anxiety is the first step toward getting the care you deserve.

Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety doesn’t look the same for everyone. There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own set of symptoms.

Here’s how the National Institute of Mental Health describes the most common forms:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

People with GAD often experience persistent, excessive worry about everyday situations. Symptoms may include:

• Feeling restless, on edge, or wound up.
• Fatigue or feeling easily tired.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Irritability.
• Muscle tension.
• Trouble controlling worry.
• Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder involves sudden and repeated panic attacks—intense episodes of fear that come on quickly. Symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
• Rapid or pounding heartbeat.
• Chest pain.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Sweating or chills.
• Feeling like something terrible is about to happen.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety goes beyond shyness. It involves intense fear around social interactions and judgment. Common signs include:

• Worrying for days or weeks before a social event.
• Fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated.
• Avoiding social situations altogether.
• Trouble making eye contact or speaking with others.
• Nausea or physical discomfort in social settings.
• Difficulty making or maintaining friendships.

How to Know If What You’re Feeling Is Anxiety

It’s completely normal to feel anxious from time to time, especially before a significant event, deadline, or life change. But when that worry becomes constant or starts to interfere with your daily life, it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

If you’ve been feeling anxious more days than not over the past six months, especially alongside symptoms like fatigue, irritability, or sleep issues, it may be time to seek support.

A good first step is to visit your primary care doctor. They can perform a physical exam and rule out any underlying medical conditions (like thyroid issues) that might be contributing to your symptoms.

From there, they may recommend speaking with a mental health professional who can help you better understand what’s going on and what kind of care might help.

Remember: You don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming. If anxiety is getting in the way of your peace of mind or your ability to enjoy life, it’s okay to ask for help.

How Do I Know If My Anxiety is Serious?

If anxiety interferes with your daily life, causing you to avoid responsibilities, social situations, or impacting your sleep and physical health, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional.

Frequent panic attacks or persistent dread are also strong indicators of an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety Is Treatable—And You’re Not Alone

The good news is that anxiety disorders are highly treatable, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

With the proper support, you can feel better and live a life that’s not ruled by worry or fear.

Some people turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with anxiety, hoping for short-term relief. Over time, substance use can make anxiety worse and lead to a cycle that’s hard to break.

True healing comes from addressing the root of the anxiety through therapy, relaxation techniques, healthy coping skills, and, in some cases, medication.

If you’re also struggling with substance use, it’s essential to treat both conditions. Anxiety and addiction often go hand-in-hand, and trying to address one without the other can leave you stuck in a loop.

With the right approach and compassionate care, lasting recovery is possible.

Can Anxiety and Substance Use Be Treated at the Same Time?

Yes, at The Raleigh House, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, which means we address both anxiety and substance use disorders together.

Treating both together is essential for long-term recovery and emotional stability.

Is Anxiety Treatable Without Medication?

Many people find relief through therapy, stress-reduction techniques, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle modifications. While some may benefit from medication, others manage anxiety effectively with non-medication approaches. Treatment is always tailored to the individual.

How Long Does it Take to Feel Better with Anxiety Treatment?

Everyone’s recovery timeline is different. Some people start to feel better within a few weeks of beginning therapy, while others may need several months. The key is consistency and finding the right support system.

Find Relief Through Dual Diagnosis Treatment at The Raleigh House

Anxiety and addiction often go hand-in-hand, and both deserve focused, personalized care.

At The Raleigh House, we treat the whole person, addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological factors that contribute to both conditions.

Our team includes medical doctors, psychologists, master’s-level therapists, nurses, and a dedicated nutritionist, all working together to support lasting recovery.

You can begin your healing journey at either of our Colorado locations:

• The Ranch at The Raleigh House: A peaceful retreat in the Colorado countryside where clients find space to reflect, reconnect, and recover through nature-inspired therapies and supportive community care.
• The Center for Integrative Behavioral Health: Located in the Denver Tech Center, The Center offers the same clinical excellence in a beautiful and accessible urban setting—ideal for clients needing physical accessibility or staying closer to home.