Conditions · FAQ
What is an anxiety disorder, and how is it different from everyday stress?
Short answer
An anxiety disorder involves fear or worry that lasts, feels hard to control, and affects daily life. Everyday stress usually relates to a clear challenge and eases as it passes. A licensed physician can review your symptoms and help decide whether you need an anxiety evaluation.
Anxiety is a normal response to uncertainty or danger. It can become a disorder when fear or worry continues, feels hard to control, or gets in the way of daily life. You do not need to wait until symptoms feel severe to ask for help.
Everyday stress often has a clear cause, such as an exam, job change, or family problem. It may ease when the situation changes. An anxiety disorder can persist even when there is no immediate threat. It may affect sleep, focus, relationships, or your ability to leave home and complete tasks.
There are several types of anxiety disorders. Some involve worry about many parts of life. Others involve social situations, specific fears, or repeated panic attacks. Symptoms can overlap with depression and other health conditions.
A licensed physician in your state can review your symptoms, medical history, and medications. They decide whether treatment through Verra is appropriate or whether you need a different kind of care.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.