4. When you are using drugs and/or alcohol to self medicate. According to The National Institute on Drug Abuse  “… compared with the general population, people addicted to drugs are roughly twice as likely to suffer from mood and anxiety disorders, with the reverse also true.” There are many people who are suffering from great anxiety who are using drugs or alcohol to self-treat their anxiety symptoms. But of course the problem is that in doing so they are developing a possibly life threatening addiction. If you are suffering from anxiety and addiction it is time to get some help.

5. When anxiety is causing you to miss out on life. If you are no longer able to enjoy everyday life or participate in day to day activities and pleasures then it is absolutely time that you got some help for your disorder. If you are finding that your anxiety has caused you to feel trapped, isolated, and fearful on a daily basis then it is time to take action. The bottom line is that you don’t need to be a prisoner to your anxiety. There is hope, support, and treatment.

How to get help for your anxiety:

• Anxiety Disorders Association of America has a Find a Therapist page.  All you have to do is plug in information about your city and state.

• There are many support groups for anxiety disorders which meet in person and on-line.

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness or NAMI  has many resources and also a number to call. Phone: 800.950.NAMI (800.950.6264)

• If you cannot afford therapy or mental health services I have written an article to help you. Please read my post, “How To Get Mental Health Services with No Money and No Insurance” as well as all the reader comments. 

Remember that anxiety is treatable. We here on Anxiety Connection  wish to help you by providing information, resources and support to anyone suffering from anxiety or their loved ones. Please don’t hesitate to ask a question, write a sharepost, or help another member by sharing your story. We are all in this together.