Recognizing Anxiety Disorders: Signs, Symptoms, and First Steps
Linda Weber
Psychologist
Are you worried about someone close to you and wondering whether their behaviour might indicate an anxiety disorder? Here you can find out which signs could point to an anxiety disorder and how you can offer support as a loved one.
How Can I Recognise an Anxiety Disorder?
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses. They often don't appear overnight, but rather gradually creep into a person's life. Typical signals are changes in behaviour, mood, and physical well-being:
The person…
- cancels appointments more frequently, also at short notice
- withdraws, even from activities that previously brought joy
- misses appointments or is frequently on sick leave
- complains of general discomfort (e.g., gastrointestinal issues, dizziness, rapid heartbeat)
- increasingly visits doctors without a physical cause being found
- appears overtired or distracted, possibly complaining of sleep disturbances
- has difficulty concentrating
- experiences panic attacks
- more frequently asks for company or support with everyday tasks (e.g., shopping, driving, public transportation)
- frequently calls or sends messages to make sure everything is okay
Do you recognise yourself in the symptoms?
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Important: These changes don't necessarily indicate an anxiety disorder. Sometimes another illness or a difficult phase of life is the underlying cause. Whatever the reason – let the person know they are not alone. Gently address what you've noticed and show that you're listening, without pressuring or judging.
Want to learn more about the different forms of anxiety disorders? Here you'll find an overview: What Are Anxiety Disorders?
What You Can Do as a Loved One
If you notice that someone is struggling, you can take action:
- Seek conversation: Speak calmly and respectfully about what you've observed. Make clear that seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness.
- Help with the search: Offer to help find a therapy place – for example by doing research or making phone calls. Tips on this: Finding a therapy place.
- Know about digital options: For bridging waiting times, there are approved digital therapy programmes available on prescription. Mindable Health offers programmes specifically for social phobia, agoraphobia, and panic disorders.
Find out more about how you can provide concrete support as a loved one here: Diagnosed with an anxiety disorder: 5 tips for relatives.
Mindable Health
Digital Help for Anxiety Disorders
Scientifically grounded, flexible for everyday use, and available free on prescription. Mindable Health's therapy programmes help to overcome anxiety in the long term.
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Conclusion
Recognising an anxiety disorder is not always easy. The changes are often subtle and develop slowly. The most important thing: notice what you see and show compassion without pressure. Anyone who seeks conversation and is open to offering support can make a real difference for those affected.
Sources
- DIMDI (German Institute for Medical Documentation), ICD-10 Version 1.0 (2013), Springer Verlag
- S3 Guideline "Anxiety Disorders" by AWMF
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
