Understanding Anxiety:
When Everyday Worry Becomes Something More
Anxiety is a normal part of life—most of us occasionally worry about family, money, or health. Problems arise, however, when those worries refuse to settle down. In anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, specific phobias, and post-traumatic stress), fear can intensify over weeks or months even when no clear danger is present. Researchers now see these conditions not only as psychological but also as neurological, tied to an over-active stress response in the brain’s limbic system. The encouraging news is that the brain is adaptable: advances in neuroplasticity suggest that targeted therapy, lifestyle change, and, when needed, medication can help retrain anxious circuits.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7)
Reference: Spitzer, R. L., Kroenke, K., Williams, J. B. W., & Löwe, B. (2006). A brief measure for assessing generalized anxiety disorder: The GAD-7. Archives of Internal Medicine, 166(10), 1092–1097. https://doi.org/10.1001/archinte.166.10.1092
Disclaimer: The GAD-7 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It is meant for personal insight only and should not replace a professional evaluation. If you're concerned about your mental health, please consult with a licensed healthcare provider or mental health professional.
The GAD-7 is a brief, 7-question self-assessment used to identify symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. It helps individuals reflect on how often they've experienced common anxiety-related feelings over the past two weeks. This tool is widely used in both clinical and personal wellness settings to support early awareness.
Common Symptoms & Physical Health Concerns
Below are some of the most frequent signs of anxiety:
Feeling keyed-up, restless, or unable to relax
Racing or uncontrollable thoughts
Tiring easily during everyday tasks
Trouble focusing or “brain fog”
Irritability
Head, muscle, or stomach pain without a clear cause
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
Shaking, trembling, or twitching
Excess sweating or clammy hands
Digestive shifts such as constipation or diarrhea
Chronic anxiety often travels with, or worsens, certain health conditions, for example:
Heart disease and high blood pressure
Gastrointestinal disorders (IBS, acid reflux)
Chronic pain and muscle tension
Migraine or tension headaches
Thyroid imbalance
Diabetes or blood-sugar dysregulation