Anxiety disorders affect millions of men and women every year, and most people experience a combination of emotional and physical symptoms depending on the severity of their condition. Anxiety disorders range from generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, phobias and social anxiety disorder, but almost all have the same spectrum of emotional symptoms that have significant effects on the person’s well-being and emotional health.

Irrational and excessive fear or worry is the trademark of all anxiety disorders. In addition, there are other emotional symptoms that are experienced frequently by most sufferers:

1. Negative thinking. Anxiety disorder sufferers mostly have a negative disposition. This can perpetuate a cycle of negative thinking, and may lead to depression, more anxiety and other problems.

2. Always restless and agitated. A person with anxiety disorder always feels uncomfortable generally or in specific situations. Some may even find it hard to relax at home in extreme situations.

3. Stressed and uptight. Most people who have even the mildest forms of anxiety disorder will feel as though they are always on the edge, or have to “walk on eggshells.” The United States National Mental Health Information Center at mentalhealth.samhsa.gov, explains that people with anxiety disorders may constantly fidget or develop other habits to diminish the feeling of anxiety and tension.

4. Watching for threats and dangers. A person may pay extra attention to signs of dangers and threats. Additionally, they will be extremely cautious in doing something and going somewhere to avoid scary situations.

5. Difficulty concentrating. When most of the day is spent being preoccupied with worry, anxiety and fear, people with anxiety disorders can find it very difficult to stay focused and concentrate. They may have difficulty sitting in one place for long periods of time to perform tasks at a job, complete schoolwork, or finish a project. The symptoms may point to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but in most cases, the real culprit is an anxiety disorder.

6. Easily annoyed. People with anxiety disorder are mostly irritable since they do not get enough rest and relaxation. They may become irritated by slight changes in their schedule or routine, and can become overly sensitive to everyday situations. Relaxation methods and taking enough rest will improve a sufferer’s condition, although these habits would need to be developed over time.

The emotional impact of anxiety disorders can negatively affect people’s life, jobs, and relationships. Identifying these symptoms is just the first step in finding the most appropriate treatment for a person suffering from an anxiety disorder.

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