It can be difficult to distinguish between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder. Normal anxiety is a feeling of fear, worry, or unease about a particular situation or event. This type of anxiety is typically short lived and is typically triggered by a specific event or situation. It is normal to experience this type of anxiety in certain situations such as taking a test, public speaking, or starting a new job.
An anxiety disorder is characterized by persistent, excessive, and unreasonable fear or worry about everyday situations. It often causes physical and/or emotional symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and muscle tension. Anxiety disorders can interfere with daily activities and can lead to difficulty functioning in school, work, and social situations.
If you are experiencing persistent fear, worry, or unease that interferes with your day-to-day activities, it is best to speak to a mental health professional. A mental health professional can help you assess your symptoms and determine whether you have an anxiety disorder or normal anxiety. They can also provide advice and treatment that can help you manage your anxiety.