Question

Many of the symptoms in anxiety and related disorders overlap with experiences most people have. What features differentiate someone with a disorder versus someone without?

Answer 1

In our day to day life we regularly face challenging situations and problems. The feelings of nervousness and discomfort in response are common and as part of normal reaction to associated stress or uncertainty. Manageable anxiety like this is not only normal but sometimes also helps in improved performance as one is more alert and puts more effort in preparation and execution. Anxiety becomes a problem when it is totally unmanageable, irrational and affects an individual's daily functioning; in which case it is considerd a disorder - an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorder is characterized by existence of a constant worry or fear that is above and beyond the regular nervous feelings or discomfort. This is disproportionate and persistent. This long-term worry and unease can vary in intensity but impairment in individual’s daily life is constant. These features differentiate anxiety disorder from being normally anxious. 

As an example, when facing an interview being anxious is normal thing, you still face the interview and go on with life.  But if there are persistent intrusive thoughts that appear hard to control and thus impair daily functioning, it is an sign of anxiety disorder. 

The common nervousness and discomfort on facing some situations and uncertainties is a normal thing; but if it is over the top and impairing an individual's daily functioning then it is considerd an anxiety disorder.