We all know what it's like to feel anxious. It’s that knot in your stomach before a big presentation or the flutter in your chest when your phone rings with an unknown number. But for some, this feeling doesn’t fade. It sticks around, growing into a constant companion that can disrupt every part of life. So, how do psychiatrists tell the difference between everyday stress and a clinical anxiety disorder? Let’s walk through the process.
Think of everyday stress as a response to a specific, short-term challenge, like preparing for a test or a difficult conversation. It’s a temporary feeling that usually goes away once the situation is resolved.
Clinical anxiety, on the other hand, is different. It's:
For example, feeling nervous before a job interview is normal stress. Constantly worrying about your health, even after doctors give you a clean bill of health, and avoiding social events because of that worry, is a sign of an anxiety disorder.
Timely care is key. Left unaddressed, chronic anxiety can take a toll on your physical health, sleep, and relationships.
When you meet with a psychiatrist, the goal isn't just to put a label on your feelings. It's to understand your unique experience. The process is a careful and detailed exploration, starting with a comprehensive interview.
What a psychiatrist will ask:
Think your anxiety came out of nowhere? A clinician explains the hidden build-up triggers, maintaining habits and simple steps to break the loop.
Before a diagnosis is made, a doctor will consider "rule-outs," potential medical conditions that can cause anxiety-like symptoms. This is an important step to ensure the symptoms aren’t from an underlying physical issue. They may order simple blood tests to check for things like:
By ruling out these physical causes, the psychiatrist can be more confident that your symptoms are psychological
To add objective data to their observations, clinicians use simple, trusted questionnaires. These aren't meant to be the final word, but they are incredibly helpful tools.
These scores help a psychiatrist track your progress and adjust your treatment plan. Think of them as a compass, they don't make the diagnosis, but they do help guide the journey.
That queasy feeling is a very real physical symptom. It’s your body's "fight-or-flight" response in action. When you feel anxious, your nervous system releases stress hormones that prepare your body for a perceived threat.
When you feel this way, try slow, deep breathing or sipping a little water to help calm your system.
Diagnosing anxiety is a thoughtful process that combines your personal story with clinical expertise and helpful tools. It's not just a passing feeling; it's a treatable condition.
If persistent worry has been a part of your life for more than a few months and is affecting your day-to-day, consider reaching out. We encourage you to schedule an evaluation with us. You don't have to navigate this alone.