Experiencing anxiety is a normal response to stress, but when it becomes excessive, persistent and interferes with daily life and functioning, it may be an anxiety disorder, and seeking professional help is important.
An anxiety test is an online tool used to determine whether or not you may have signs of anxiety disorder and evaluates the presence and severity of symptoms of anxiety in an individual.
It typically includes a series of questions about your symptoms and behaviors.
After you answer all the questions provided in the self-assessment, the test scores your responses and determines the level of anxiety you are experiencing.
How Accurate Is It?
This test serves as a useful tool to identify individuals with potential symptoms of anxiety. However, self-diagnosis of any mental health disorder is not recommended. A licensed mental health professional must make an accurate diagnosis of anxiety disorder.
Assessments can be beneficial and serve as the first step toward obtaining professional assistance and a correct diagnosis.
Before you start the test please remember that there are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own set of symptoms and behaviors.
This self-assessment cannot predict which type of anxiety disorder you may have. We’ve created separate screening tests for each of these, and you can take whichever one you think is appropriate for you. Generalized Anxiety Disorder Test — Social Anxiety — Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Screening Test — Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Test
Can I self-diagnose anxiety disorder?
Self-diagnosis of any mental health condition is not recommended. Anxiety disorder is a complex mental health condition and self-diagnosis can lead to misdiagnosis. It is highly possible that your symptoms may be caused by other health conditions whether it may be physical illness or mental health disorder.
However, if you are concerned about your symptoms and they are interfering with your day-to-day activities, it may be a first step towards getting a proper diagnosis by a mental health professional.
You can observe your own symptoms, such as feelings of nervousness, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.
How do I check if I have anxiety?
You can ask yourself these questions and if you agree with most of them then you need to get evaluated by a mental health professional for getting a proper diagnosis.
- Do you feel excessively worried or nervous most days?
- Are your worries out of proportion to the situation?
- Do your worries interfere with your daily activities?
- Do you experience physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or a rapid heartbeat when anxious?
- Have you been experiencing anxiety for an extended period of time?
- Do you avoid certain situations or activities due to anxiety?
- Do you experience panic attacks or a fear of having one?
- Do you have trouble sleeping or experience nightmares due to anxiety?
- Do you have trouble concentrating or feel easily distracted?
- Do you experience muscle tension or physical discomfort due to anxiety?
- Do you experience feelings of dread or impending doom?
- Do you experience changes in appetite or weight due to anxiety?
- Do you experience feelings of restlessness or irritability?
- Do you experience feelings of worthlessness or guilt?
- Do you experience feelings of hopelessness or a lack of interest in things you used to enjoy?
At what age can you diagnose anxiety?
Anxiety affects everyone so anxiety can be diagnosed at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
In children as young as 6 years old can also be diagnosed, but the diagnosis may be more difficult because children may not have the verbal skills to express their feelings and experiences.
Child and adolescent psychiatrists or psychologists are often best equipped to diagnose anxiety disorders in young people.
These mental health professionals are trained and may observe a child’s behavior, ask questions to parents and caregivers, and use standardized questionnaires or rating scales to assess symptoms.
What causes anxiety disorder?
Anxiety disorders are caused by a combination of factors, which include:
Genetics: Anxiety disorders often run in families, implying that they are inherited.
Environmental factors: Anxiety disorders can be exacerbated by trauma, abuse, or neglect.
Brain chemistry: Anxiety disorders may be linked to chemical imbalances in the brain that regulate mood and emotions.
Medical conditions: Anxiety symptoms can be caused by certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or thyroid disorders.
Substance abuse: The use of drugs or alcohol can raise the chances of developing an anxiety disorder.
Life events: Anxiety disorders can develop as a result of stressful life events such as the death of loved ones, divorce, or job loss.
