Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my antidepressant working?

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion that is part of the brain’s protective system. It helps us respond to stressful situations or dangers.

However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, or difficult to control, it can affect quality of life, sleep, relationships, work, and daily functioning.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health disorders. They can affect both adults and adolescents.
At Clinique Santé Mentale en Ligne, we offer mental health assessments via teleconsultation to help people living with anxiety better understand their symptoms and receive tailored recommendations.

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder occurs when anxiety becomes disproportionate to the situation or causes significant distress.

Unlike normal stress, which generally subsides once the situation is over, an anxiety disorder can persist and limit daily activities.

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

Symptoms can vary from person to person. The most common ones include:

Emotional
symptoms

  • excessive worry;
  • constant nervousness;
  • a feeling of being overwhelmed;
  • irritability;
  • difficulty relaxing.

Physical
Symptoms

Anxiety can cause :

  • heart palpitations;
  • increased heart rate;
  • muscle tension;
  • tremors;
  • feeling of tightness;
  • dizziness;
  • digestive problems;
  • fatigue;
  • sleep disorders.

Behavioral
Changes

Some people may:

  • have thoughts that go round and round;
  • prepare for the worst;
  • have trouble concentrating;
  • ruminate;
  • have trouble making decisions.

Can ADHD cause anxiety ?

Yes. Organizational challenges, forgetfulness, and feeling overwhelmed can contribute to significant anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Normal anxiety is a human emotion. It becomes a disorder when it is excessive, persistent, and interferes with daily functioning.

Yes. Anxiety can cause several physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations, muscle tension, fatigue, and digestive problems.

A panic attack can be very frightening, but it is generally not dangerous. However, it can be very debilitating without treatment.

Some mild cases may improve on their own, but a persistent anxiety disorder often requires professional treatment.

Une femme en vidéoconférence sur son ordinateur portable.

Access specialized care

An ongoing commitment to responsible, ethical, and quality-oriented care.