•January 10, 2024•

It is normal to feel nervous from time to time, particularly when anticipating a potentially life-changing event. However, when nervousness is excessive, persistent and intense, or arises from seemingly innocuous stimuli, that could indicate the presence of an anxiety disorder.

What is anxiety?

The American Psychiatric Association says anxiety is a normal response to stress. Anxiety disorders differ from normal nervousness because they involve excessive fear. The APA also says anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders and affect nearly 30 percent of adults at some point in their lives. It is time to seek help when anxiety interferes with your ability to function; you often overreact when something triggers your emotions; and you can’t control your responses to situations.

What contributes to anxiety disorders?

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