5 Signs That Show Its Time To See A Psychiatrist
Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition commonly characterized by excessive fear and worry, among other emotional and physical symptoms. This condition can manifest in many forms, including:
- Panic disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Specific phobias
- Social anxiety disorder
Excessive worry and anxiety are commonly linked to 3 of the following signs and symptoms:
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Feeling easily fatigued
- Inability to concentrate
- Difficulties sleeping
- Restlessness
Although some of these symptoms may fade away with time, you need to know just when it’s time to see a specialist or doctor. Some of the signs that show its time to see a doctor include:
1. It Is Affecting Your Physical Well-Being
There are times when anxiety will cause excessive mental stress, making it almost impossible to handle even the simplest of tasks. The occasional anxious thoughts that cause you to feel drained or sap your energy shouldn’t be taken lightly and are a cue for booking a doctor’s appointment. Some of such known symptoms include digestive issues, inability to sleep well, and unexplained muscle aches.
2. You Are Anxious About Everything In Your Life
While it might be normal for one to feel anxious when about to give a public speech, worrying excessively about almost everything in your life isn’t. It would thus be advisable to see a specialist if you worry excessively about multiple activities such as school performance, career, and interpersonal relationships.
3. If The Symptoms Persist For More Than 5 Months
Most cases of generalized anxiety disorder are chronic. Suppose you have been experiencing the occasional feelings of anxiety for more days than not or more than five months. In that case, this might be because of a different reason or an underlying condition. The doctor might have to run a series of tests to determine the cause.
4. The Symptoms Interfere With Your Day-To-Day Life
How anxiety disorders affect your day-to-day life determines if there’s a need to see a doctor or not. Doctors use this criterion to determine if there’s a reason for concern and recommend solutions. That said, you might want to see a doctor if anxiety is taking a toll on your social life, occupational functioning, or causing significant clinical distress.
5. You Haven’t Been Diagnosed With A Medical Condition
Some medications for various conditions might trigger feelings of anxiety in patients. This, however, doesn’t mean you have an anxiety disorder. The doctor will only need to help you overcome the condition that might be causing the same. If you, however, aren’t on prescription drugs, diagnosed with a medical condition, or use illicit drugs but do show symptoms, you then might want to see a doctor.
When To Talk To A Doctor
Unknown to many, anxiety is, in itself, a symptom of various medical conditions. It would thus be advisable to see a doctor if concerned about the condition, particularly chronic anxiety. If worried about the symptoms getting worse, talking to a medical professional about it might help. A good doctor should be able to diagnose the condition before it gets out of hand. There is no better time to have an honest and open conversation with your doctor (about anxiety) than now.
Contact us or call us today if you need help from an anxiety doctor. We’re here to help you!