Anxiety is a normal and natural response to stress, but when it becomes excessive and interferes with daily life, it can be diagnosed as an anxiety disorder. Anxiety can feel different for everyone, but there are some common physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that can help you identify it.

1. Physical symptoms: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, and muscle tension. You may also experience shortness of breath, stomachaches, and headaches.
2. Emotional symptoms: Anxiety can cause feelings of fear, worry, and panic, as well as negative thoughts and self-doubt. You may feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with daily stressors.
3. Behavioral symptoms: Anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as skipping work or social events, or engaging in compulsive behaviors, such as excessive checking or cleaning.
4. Sleep disturbances: Anxiety can cause sleep problems, such as insomnia or difficulty falling asleep, which can make symptoms worse.
5. Irritability: Anxiety can make you feel on edge, easily frustrated, and irritable, leading to conflict in relationships and at work.
6. Difficulty concentrating: Anxiety can impair your ability to focus, making it difficult to complete tasks or make decisions.
7. Feelings of dread or foreboding: Anxiety can cause feelings of impending doom or a sense that something bad is about to happen, even when there is no apparent reason for these feelings.
8. Panic attacks: Anxiety can lead to panic attacks, which are sudden and intense feelings of fear and panic accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Anxiety is treatable, and there are a number of effective therapies and medications available to help manage symptoms. With the right support, it is possible to overcome anxiety and regain control over your life.

It is important to remember that everyone experiences anxiety differently, and seeking help is a sign of strength. If you are struggling with anxiety and need support, reach out to a mental health professional or support group for guidance.