Diagnosing Anxiety

Some instances of anxiety are easy to diagnose while others are not.

If you feel that you may be suffering from anxiety, your first step should be to visit your family doctor. Describe your symptoms to your doctor, and he or she will determine whether further diagnostic measures are needed. They may also be able to determine whether the anxiety is related to your physical health, which is entirely possible.

If they find no signs of a physical problem that may be causing your anxiety, they will most likely refer you to a counselor. You will be asked questions, and it is essential that you answer those questions as fully and as honestly as you possibly can so that your condition can be accurately diagnosed and treated. Some questions that you will be asked include:

1.  Do you feel anxious during certain situations?
2.  Do you feel anxious all the time or just some time?
3.  Do you have anxiety attacks or experience physical symptoms of anxiety?
4.  Have there been changes in your sleep pattern?
5.  Have there been changes in your appetite?

Of course, your health care professional may ask additional questions depending on the answers that you have given thus far to diagnose your condition. You will most likely be asked about your lifestyle, as well. For instance, your doctor will need to know if you smoke, consume alcohol, or use drugs of any kind. This includes prescription medication and illegal drugs. Your caffeine intake will also be of importance to your doctor.

Your doctor will want to know about other family members, and if there is a history of anxiety in your family. He is not asking about family members that are not related by blood. Furthermore, your doctor will want to know what symptoms you are experiencing, and when they began.

There is no blood test or medical equipment used to determine whether one is suffering from anxiety. The diagnosis can only be made after talking to the patient and asking the right questions. The diagnosis is made based on the answers to those questions.

Once a diagnosis of anxiety disorder has been made, your doctor will discuss various treatment options with you.