I'm Growing More and More Anxious

Everyone gets anxious now and then, but when you have an anxiety disorder, your symptoms can be overwhelming and make your daily life difficult. If you struggle with anxiety, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Even if your symptoms are worsening, you’re not alone. Some 31% of the population experiences anxiety symptoms. 

Our expert team of medical providers at Arundel Medical Group, Inc. offers mental health services at our primary care practice in Glen Burnie, Maryland. Read on to learn more about worsening anxiety, including what to do about these challenges.

Types of anxiety disorders

Anxiety impacts people differently, and some of the symptoms vary based on the type you have. Anxiety can include:

• Agoraphobia — fear of specific spaces or leaving home
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder — excessive worry or abnormal fears for at least 6 months
• Separation Anxiety Disorder — often involves intense fear that you or a loved one will be harmed if you’re separated
• Panic Disorder — recurrent panic attacks
• Social Anxiety Disorder — intense worry around social situations
• Specific Phobia — fear of a particular object or situation

One thing all anxiety disorders share is a level of worry or fear that goes beyond occasional or temporary symptoms. And numerous factors can influence how intensely and severely you experience them, including life events or whether you have access to or embraced treatment.

When anxiety worsens

While anxiety was once thought to improve with age, many people find that anxiety symptoms increase as they grow older. With age, you may find yourself dealing with more stressful situations, such as losing loved ones, divorce, work or financial stress, and health changes. 

Anxiety has also been linked with COVID-19. You may have increased anxiety because of the pandemic, concerns over loved ones’ health and well-being, or your own symptoms. And the longer a stressful situation continues, the more likely you may be to experience higher levels of anxiety. 

What to do about anxiety

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or notice that you’re feeling more anxious than usual, tending to your mental health is important. Our team of experts screens for mental health conditions during preventive and routine care visits. We can also determine if another issue, such as a hormone imbalance, is fueling these changes. 

Depending on your needs, we may refer you to a trusted psychiatrist for an evaluation. From there, treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

To learn more about anxiety or get the mental health support you need, call Arundel Medical Group, Inc., or request an appointment on our website.