Many people suffer from the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety disorders every year. There are different types of anxiety disorders, but most produce the same impact on a person’s quality of life and well-being.

Irrational and excessive fear or worry is the trademark of all anxiety disorders. In addition, there are other emotional symptoms that are experienced frequently by most sufferers:

1. Anticipating the worst. Most people suffering from an anxiety disorder are always preparing for the worst, and expect negative things to happen. This can perpetuate a cycle of negative thinking, and may lead to depression, more anxiety and other problems.

2. Agitation or restlessness. Anxiety disorders often leave the person feeling uneasy or uncomfortable in certain situations. In some cases, the sufferer may experience constant restlessness even when trying to relax at home. This is because they have gotten into the habit of maintaining a heightened sense of awareness, and may have become particularly sensitive to even the slightest changes in their environment.

3. Under constant tension. People with anxiety disorder might feel they are “jumpy” on a regular basis. The United States National Mental Health Information Center at mentalhealth.samhsa.gov states that people with anxiety disorders may be “trapped in a pattern of repeated thoughts and behaviors such as counting or hand washing” to relieve tension.

4. Looking out for danger. People who are under constant tension may become pre-occupied with dangerous situations and events. They would consciously be on the lookout for danger signs in everything they do.

5. Difficulty Focusing. Anxiety disorders drain much of a person’s ability to focus and concentrate. This can cause a person to struggle remaining in one place to study, write, or complete any other task. The symptoms may point to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but in most cases, the real culprit is an anxiety disorder.

6. Irritable. People with anxiety disorder are mostly irritable since they do not get enough rest and relaxation. They may be overly sensitive in a course of a day specially if there is a change in their routine. This can be remedied by a better handling of stress and taking the time to develop a relaxation habit.

There are several emotional symptoms of anxiety disorders that can adversely affect the sufferer’s life, and the lives of their friends and family. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step to addressing an anxiety disorder and finding the best course of treatment.