Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

Physical symptoms. These are caused by the autonomic nervous system, which automatically activates in response to a perceived threat or danger. Common physical symptoms include: shortness of breath or rapid breathing, dizziness, dry mouth, increased heart rate, tremors, muscle tension, sweating, a knot in the stomach or throat, or restlessness, among others.

Thoughts. Anxiety often changes the way we think, leading to overly negative or catastrophic thoughts. For example, imagining that something bad is going to happen (even if it’s unlikely), or believing that if it does happen, it will be unbearable.  

Behavioural symptoms. When someone feel anxious about a particular situation, their behaviour often changes in response, typically trying to avoid or escape the situation. In some anxiety disorders, people adopt strategies to try to reduce their anxiety. These are known as safety behaviours, meaning they avoid situations that cause them anxiety (like taking the tube) or using coping strategies to ease their discomfort (like going with someone or carrying a lucky charm).