Many people suffer from anxiety; however the symptoms of anxiety vary. They can range from being very minor to extremely challenging. The latter of the two is more difficult to cope with and will create physical and emotional symptoms that are overwhelming, exhausting and debilitating.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are scary and challenging to get through. When you have a panic attack your heart starts to race, you are short of breath and you go into a state of what looks like a physical "loss of control." You may feel that you are paralyzed or that you are going to die. It's common to feel that you are incapable of getting yourself out of the panic attack.
Isolation
Anxiety can create a sense of isolation or agoraphobia. Severe anxiety may hold you back from leaving your house. You may begin to feel safer within your own home and that the world is a dangerous place to be in. You may fear being anxious in public and having others view you in that state. Anxiety may also cause you not to use the phone or communicate with your friends and family.
Lack of Functioning
Feeling anxious can be all-consuming and can cause you be unable to function normally. Performing small tasks becomes a tremendous challenge. Buying groceries, walking the dog or making a phone call all of a sudden feel like huge burdens. Getting the house cleaned and taking care of everyday chores feels overwhelming.
Depression
Anxiety and depression are often diagnosed simultaneously. When you suffer from panic attacks, cannot leave the house or feel burdened by small tasks, it causes a real sense of sadness and hopelessness. Not being able to get through the day and being taken over by anxiety are frightening feelings that lead to depressive thoughts and possibly a diagnosis of depression.
