How anxious are you? Use this quiz to help you determine if you might need to see a mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment of an anxiety disorder or panic disorder.
Instructions
This is a screening measure to help you determine whether you might have an anxiety disorder that needs professional attention. This screening measure is not designed to make a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder or take the place of a professional diagnosis or consultation. Please take the time to fill out the below form as accurately, honestly and completely as possible. All of your responses are confidential.
Some anxiety is a part of most people’s normal, everyday life. However, when anxiety becomes debilitating and starts interfering with your life, it may be related to an undiagnosed anxiety disorder. There are a few common types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, and simple, specific phobias. Obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are also considered anxiety disorders, but aren’t addressed by this quiz.
Symptoms common to someone suffering from an anxiety disorder include: muscle tension; physical weakness; memory issues; sweaty hands; fear or confusion; trouble relaxing; constant worry; shortness of breath; heart palpitations; an upset stomach; and poor concentration. Most people experience a few of these symptoms when diagnosed with one of these conditions.
Learn more: Generalized anxiety disorder symptoms or Panic Disorder symptoms
Learn more: What causes anxiety disorders
Treatment of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders can be treated, usually with a combination of psychotherapy and medications. The first-line treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias is nearly always cognitive-behavioral therapy. This is a well-researched method for quick and direct treatment of this condition — often without the need of medications.
Some people also find medications helpful for the treatment of their anxiety symptoms. Because of their non-addictive qualities, many physicians prefer to prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) for first-line treatment of anxiety disorders.
Learn more: Treatment for Anxiety