Anxiety Screenings Now Recommended for US Adults Under 65

New Screening For Those Under 65 — Did You Get Yours?

(AscendHealthy.com) – Anxiety can come in many forms, and individuals with the same diagnosis may be affected differently. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends anxiety screening for adults 64 years or younger, including pregnant and postpartum persons.

What Are Anxiety Disorders?

There are different causes and risk factors for anxiety disorders, but addressing symptoms with a healthcare provider can be beneficial. Prevalent anxiety disorders in adults include:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder -persistent and excessive anxiousness or worry about activities or events, even those that are ordinary. The worry is difficult to control, out of proportion for the situation, affects how you feel, and may occur along with depression or other anxiety disorders.
  • Social anxiety disorder – High levels of anxiety, fear, and avoidance of social situations due to feeling embarrassed, self-conscious, or concerned about being judged or viewed negatively
  • Panic disorder – Episodes of intense anxiety and fear/terror that peak within minutes – involves feelings of impending doom, chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations. Worrying about more panic attacks or avoiding situations where they have occurred is also common.
  • Phobias – intense anxiety or fear when exposed to a situation, place, or specific object; may cause panic attacks
  • Other anxiety not otherwise specified – Similar terms may be used for anxiety or phobias which do not meet the diagnostic criteria for other anxiety disorders yet are significantly distressing or disruptive to the individual’s life

What are the Symptoms of Anxiety?

The symptoms of anxiety are varied and can manifest differently for each individual. Common symptoms include:

  • Nervousness, restlessness, feeling tense
  • A persistent sense of impending doom, danger, or panic
  • Heart palpitations
  • Hyperventilation
  • Sweating or trembling
  • Feeling tired or week
  • Issues concentrating or thinking about anything other than a present worry
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Urge to avoid triggering situations

Anxiety Screening

If you or a loved one has symptoms of anxiety, speak to a primary care physician. They can screen for anxiety and other health problems that sometimes coexist with anxiety or cause similar symptoms, or refer you to a specialist.

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