When does your exam anxiety need treatment?

We all get worried when a deadline approaches, and get anxious before a big event. These nerves are a natural response and are good for us as it makes us more alert. But what happens when these worries start interfering with our daily lives? Why are some people unable to focus on daily tasks because they are overwrought by worry, even though there is no apparent reason? When anxiety impairs a person’s ability to go about daily tasks, it might be an anxiety disorder and the person should seek help from a mental health professional.

It is important to remember that this is only a mental health issue when it happens over a long period of time, and occurs when there is no apparent reason for the person to worry. 

Symptoms of anxiety

Worry is a natural emotion, so one mustn’t raise alarm bells just because they or someone they know is worried. If the anxiety is debilitating and prolonged, only then is it a cause for concern. The symptoms of anxiety disorders are usually seen when a person is suffering from an anxiety attack. They are:

• Rapid heartbeat and heavy breathing

• Tightness in the chest

• Palpitations and shivers

• Unsubstantiated and excess worry

If you know someone who suffers from these symptoms, you should speak to them about anxiety disorders and encourage them to seek help.

Anxiety during exam time

Exams can be a stressful event in a student’s life, with the weight of expectations and stiff competition always on the rise. Read about exam anxiety here

For more information on the various kinds of anxiety disorders, their causes, and how they can be treated, click here.