Anxiety disorder: how to recognize it

You have probably felt those nerves before: the knot in your stomach before an important presentation, the tension before a date, or that oh-so-familiar stress before a job interview. Normal, right? But what if that fear doesn’t go away? What if that knot doesn’t loosen and you feel constantly on edge? Then you might be suffering from an anxiety disorder – and believe us, you are not alone. In this article, we dive into what an anxiety disorder actually is, how to recognize it, and most importantly: what you can do about it.

What is an anxiety disorder, actually?

Anxiety is, just like a bit of stress, a normal part of life. But an anxiety disorder goes beyond a little nervousness before an important event. It is a constant, overwhelming fear that is disproportionate to the situation. It makes you feel trapped in your own thoughts, and that can significantly affect your daily life. From panic attacks to extreme worries about social situations or specific phobias – anxiety disorders can take many forms. These are the seven phobias that even the bravest people suffer from.

How do you recognize an anxiety disorder?

Let’s be honest: we all know that feeling of uncomfortable nerves before a big event. But with an anxiety disorder, it goes further. It’s like a movie that keeps playing in your head while you try to look outside and find the stop button. These are signs that you might be dealing with an anxiety disorder:

• The physical symptoms: Your heart races in your throat, you have trouble breathing, your hands tremble, and you feel dizzy. Not the typical nerves before a job interview, but something you really can’t stop.
• Endless worries: You worry about everything, day after day. You know it’s unnecessary, but it seems your brain doesn’t take a break.
• Avoiding social situations: If you find yourself canceling social events more often because you’re afraid of others’ judgment or simply don’t know how to handle the situation, that can indicate an anxiety disorder.
• Sleep problems: The feeling of restlessness can make it hard for you to fall asleep or cause you to wake up constantly, with your thoughts still in a cycle of worries.
• Physical tension: If your body feels constantly tense, as if you are always ‘on edge’, that can be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

How often does it occur?

Well, you are really not alone. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in the world. In the Netherlands, about 1 in 10 people experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. It occurs more often in women than in men, especially between the ages of 18 and 35. So if you sometimes feel alone in your anxiety, just think of all those other people who recognize this – you are definitely not alone.

What can you do about it?

Anxiety can be debilitating, but fortunately, it is treatable. You don’t have to walk around with that constant tension for the rest of your life. There are ways to alleviate the anxiety and give yourself a bit of breathing room.

• Talk about it: It sounds simple, but talking is really the first step towards improvement. Whether you talk to a friend, your partner, or a therapist, sharing your feelings can be a relief. Often, it helps immensely to no longer feel alone in your anxiety.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This may sound like something out of a psychological handbook, but it is really very effective. CBT helps you change your thoughts and behaviors so that you feel less anxious. You learn new ways to cope with stressful situations, and that can make a world of difference.
• Medication: In some cases, medication can help alleviate your anxiety. Antidepressants and sedatives can provide a temporary solution, but they are not a long-term solution. It is important to always do this in consultation with a doctor.
• Movement: It may sound like a cliché, but exercise really helps. Physical activity reduces the production of stress hormones and stimulates the production of feel-good endorphins. Whether it’s a brisk walk or a yoga class – anything helps to reduce your anxiety.
• Mindfulness and meditation: Sometimes it’s hard to calm your thoughts, but mindfulness can help you live more in the moment and worry less. There are plenty of apps and videos that can help you with this.
• Take good care of yourself: Sleep, nutrition, and relaxation are essential for your mental health. Stress can build up if you don’t get enough rest, so make sure to take time for yourself, whether it’s with a good book or a warm bath.

Are you recovering from an anxiety disorder?

Although anxiety disorders are treatable, it is important to have realistic expectations. For some, the symptoms disappear over time and with the right treatment. Others learn how to manage their anxiety, but it remains something they have to live with. The most important thing is that you can do something about it, and you don’t have to go through it alone.

Famous people who are open about their anxiety disorder

It’s always nice to know that even famous people struggle with anxiety disorders – and talk about it openly. This helps break the stigma surrounding mental health. Some well-known people who have shared their story:

• Emma Stone: The Oscar-winning actress has spoken openly about her struggle with anxiety disorders and how she copes with them.
• Since he married Blake and she gave birth, I find him even more attractive. Just look for videos where you hear him talk about daughter James, even I melt from that. And by the way, how cute is James as a name! Baby Ryan was born in Vancouver. Apparently, there’s good water there too.: The actor has shared how he struggles with anxiety, which helps promote the conversation about mental health.
• Photography by: The model has candidly talked about her social anxiety, which even affected her work.
• Selena Gomez: The singer has spoken about her anxiety disorders and how she tries to maintain her mental health amidst her busy life.

Books about anxiety disorders

Books can be a great source of support and knowledge if you want to learn more about anxiety and how to cope with it. Some of the best books are:

• “The Anxiety Cure” by A.J. Jacobs – This book offers practical tips for overcoming anxiety, based on mindfulness and other techniques.
• “How to Get Rid of Anxiety” by David A. Clark – A scientifically grounded book about understanding and overcoming anxiety disorders.
• “The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook” by Edmund J. Bourne – A practical guide full of exercises and techniques to tackle anxiety.

The moral of the story

Anxiety disorders are serious, but they are not the end of the world. You don’t have to struggle with them alone, and there are so many ways to treat it. So, if you notice that anxiety is starting to control your life, know that help is available – and that you can overcome it. And remember: you are not the only one going through this. Definitely not. An anxiety disorder is not a sign of weakness, but rather of sensitivity, and that is a great asset.

Image: Cr. Amanda Matlovich/Netflix © 2025 Source: Wijzijnmind