Do I have an anxiety disorder?

Question

If so, what's a good treatment??

I get really nervous when I'm around people I don't know. If I'm in a shopping center alone, I usually feel dizzy and have a headache by the time I leave. It also interferes with my classes at college, because I'm focusing more on my nervousness than listening to the instructor.

Answer 1

I have GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) It almost sounds like you may have social anxiety, judging from the shopping center. Anxiety will generally make your heart race, and you may feel dizzy and even sweat at times. It definitely sound like a form of anxiety.

I take alprazolam (the generic xanax) and it works good, it definitely calms me. I also take a low dosage of anti-depressent "lexapro" to help keep my mood good and not feel so down in the dumps. See a Psycologist, you'll get the right treatment and be just fine.

Answer 2

We all get anxious at times. It's a new school year for you so naturally you're not 100% comfortable with your surroundings. Guess what - we all get like that; young and old; fat and thin; beautiful and ugly; dumb and smart - everyone all the time for different things. Plus if you're new to being on your own; you're growing buddy!

It's important to think things through and challenge this type of thinking. I'm a huge advocate of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - what you think is what you feel.

Perhaps during some alone time, jot down these feelings your having; then rate them on a scale from 1-10; 10 being severe. This will help you objectify your "problem/concern/worry" and be able to work with it; rather than it work you.

Relax and have fun with it. Write out the 'worst case' and then what you would do if it really happened; the sky's the limit. What you'll see is that alot of what we get anxious about is FEAR; False Evidence Appearing Real. Remind yourself that there's nothing that you won't be able to take care of and you have lots of resources at your disposal. Build youself the security you need to have in yourself.

Remember... be yourself and be your own best friend. Don't take yourself or people too seriously. Think back to Grade 7 and how things were then; you made it then and you're making it again.

Be strong in yourself and God Bless.

Answer 3

Yes it sounds like you do have some type anxiety. It could be social anxiety which when you are around crowds it is more pronounced. I do suffer from the same, or almost the same condition. Mine is "accute anxiety", with depression. With depression you really don't want to be around anyone, and that includes family. It took me about 18 months to get the depression at a comfortable level even though I still do not want to do the things I once enjoyed. With that combined with anxiety I do not
want to do any activities that I once enjoyed. I was an avid fisherman as I live on a huge lake. When I worked with the airline I read news from all over the world. I have not picked up a paper in about two years. I am to anxious just to sit and read the news.

Answer 4

Yes, it sounds like you do have a some social anxiety. Don't feel bad about it though, it is not as uncommon as you think. I suffer from the same problems you mention, and most of the time it is not a big deal, just a discomfort when I am out on my own, and in school when I must interact with others. Presentations and things like that are the worst things in the world to me!! Maybe you are like that also. Anyway, I have not been to a doctor about my problems, and I don't take any medications for it; but if you constantly have these problems and they leave you stressed out you should go to a doctor, there are all kinds of medications and remedies out nowadays, just watch for side effects with any medications you may consider.

Answer 5

I know how you feel, kiddo. I have several. In school, I would run to the bathroom, and either scream or cut. Horrifying, I know. But now, I'm learning that there are ways of dealing with this. By posting your question, you did one.. you forced yourself to look at the problem. Now, you need to talk about it with someone, anyone. You can't run your life. You are a wonderful, smart, classy individual... too perfect to let this destroy you. It helps me to tell myself as it's happening that I'm strong, and that I've been through worse things. I tell myself that I am in control, and that there is nothing to fear. Will power is a essential tool when improving your life. Mind over matter. And talk about what frustrates you. Get it all out. There are people who love you, and want to help. And it may not even be a disorder. Life can be tough, and there are instances in which we just overload... we fail. The important thing to remember is that there is nothing in this life you can not handle. Take care, and I Hope everything works out for you. P.S.: I really like your suit.

Answer 6

Yes, it does sound as though you suffer from social anxiety or a type of agoraphobia (fear of open or public places). Try to seek professional help before the situation gets worse. If money is an issue there are usually some good state agencies that can help without the exorbitant prices. Is there possibly someone at the college you attend who could help you, professor, dean, guidance counselor?

Answer 7

The underlying cause of anxiety is depression. You might say to yourself...I dont feel sad or cry or want to commit suicide, but its a form of depression. A pscyh doctor is the best. If he gives you something like prozax or other, and you go crazy, then your probably bipolar and will need to add another medicine to it. You might have started noticing these symptoms after a tragic event in your life. Good luck, ask doctor about saint johns wort. takes about 6mths before it starts working. Your too handsome to be nervous around others. just dont pretend to be something your not because others are not as dumb as you think.

Answer 8

I used to be shy and feel nervous at malls and things too. Try taking a book or magazine to a busy place and sitting there and reading. Think of all the times you've spent in airports and not been nervous there. It's because you had a reason to be there. That reason occupied your mind. Let the reason in the malls be your finding a place to read. Then get into your reading. It will work. (Maybe guys aren't programmed for shopping).

Answer 9

It sounds like you have some anxiety going on in your life. Have you thought about going to a Psychiatrist to be seen and evaluated? Its a good idea because if he sees a problem he can give you something for the anxiety. You may also be having Panic Attacks, I have them from time to time and the mall will set me off everytime. See the doc and see if you need some medication.

Answer 10

You seriously need more sleep,,that will help.Iv also read that anxiety is the oppisite of excitement,,so get excited about something.Are you happy in your life,,if not,,change it.Dont be so nervous around peple ,,they are just people like you.Always know whats going on around you so you dont have to worry about it.Stores are stuffy,,i usually get too hot & a headache also.Think about it though,,what on earth do you really have to be nervous about?Certainly not the other students,,if anything Id be worried about terrorists.Chill & enjoy life,,every day.Think possitive.Beleive in yourself & count your blessings.Have fun whatever you do.lol.