'Normal' anxiety versus Anxiety Disorder
When was the last time you experienced anxiety? Was it right before that exam worth 70% of your final grade? Maybe it was on a date with that girl/boy you really like? Or during the job interview for the position you wanted to get. Whatever the situation may have been, it seems that most of us experience some form of anxiety on a pretty regular basis. So where do we draw the fine line which separates ‘normal’ anxiety from an anxiety disorder?
Anxiety is a negative mood state, primarily characterised by apprehension or uneasiness about the future. This may also be accompanied by physical symptoms such as feeling restless, an increased heart rate, muscle tension and others. Although these characteristics sound debilitating and unpleasant, scientists have found that anxiety in moderate amounts may actually be good for us. The Yerkes-Dodson law suggests that increased arousal levels can improve our performance by increasing our motivation, focus and attention. Maybe feeling anxious for that exam made you better prepared for it. Or perhaps worrying about that job interview motivated you to do some more research on the company. However this theory only applies up until a certain point; it is when this state of arousal becomes excessive that it starts to become serious.
Those who suffer from generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) experience excessive, persistent and disproportional anxiety and worry more days than not over a course of at least six months. Furthermore, these feelings of worry and apprehension are often difficult to control and may be present with or without the presence of stressors; often causing significant distress to ones everyday life. Let’s take a look at some of the main differences between normal anxiety and GAD.
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It is important to remember that everyone’s experience is different and that triggers, symptoms and the severity of anxiety will differ from individual to individual. If you feel that you can relate to some (or all) of these symptoms make an appointment with a doctor who will be able to help evaluate whether you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. If you need help now please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (Australia wide) or if you are in immediate danger call 000.