Mild Anxiety Disorder

As of 2004, the National Institute of Mental Health reported an estimated 26.2 percent of Americans suffer from some form of anxiety disorder. In cases where symptoms don't effect a person's normal functioning, a mild form of the condition may be present. Though not life-altering, these symptoms can increase in intensity and type when left untreated.

Identification

Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety at some time or another. For some, these feelings can provide the focus and concentration needed to accomplish a task. For others, they can linger without any visible sign that a threat is present. Mild anxiety disorders arise when there are unresolved issues or concerns at stake. If these persists over prolonged periods of time, they can significantly affect a person's sense of well-being. The longer it continues, the more likely other emotional, and/or physical symptoms will develop.

Causes

Getting married, getting divorced, moving to a new location, or any major life changing event can trigger feelings of apprehension. How a person handles change can play a large part in how these feelings are handled. Those who develop mild anxiety disorders may be responding to more than just what is happening in the here and now. Memories from a similar past experience that went badly may be affecting how a person reacts to a present situation, causing doubts and worries to surface. People who are nervous by nature are especially susceptible to these symptoms.

Symptoms

Feelings of mild anxiety can bring about a wide range of symptoms depending on a person's personality makeup. Sweaty palms, butterflies in the stomach, muscle tension, shortness of breath and even chest pains are possible physical signs. The trigger can be a real, or perceived threat, or a lingering sense of pending doom. Feelings of helplessness, confusion, a loss of confidence, or panic are possible emotional symptoms of anxiety. Obsessive worries that prompt repetitive behaviors --such as making sure the doors are locked--can also occur.

Mild Anxiety Panic Attacks

In cases where feelings of anxiety persist, or when a situation is overwhelming, mild panic attacks are possible. Unlike panic attacks that occur in more severe forms of anxiety, mild attacks can resemble a person's normal reaction to stress. A mild attack can appear as shortness of breath, feeling lightheaded or dizzy, or a rapid heartbeat. These can occur in response to a perceived threat, or change, or they can pop up out of nowhere when worries persist over time.

Treatment

Mild anxiety disorders, though distressing at times, are not severe enough to hamper a person's ability to carry out everyday responsibilities. A person is aware of the symptoms he's experiencing so dealing with them as they occur may be all the treatment that's required. Relaxation techniques involving deep breathing and muscle relaxation can help in times where feelings of apprehension occur. For those who experience ongoing anxiety, or nervousness, incorporating a regular exercise routine can help to relieve built up stress and tension. Biofeedback techniques and hypnosis can also prove helpful in eliminating symptoms. Your primary care physician can provide treatment options as well.

Resources

• Anxiety Disorders