Screening for Anxiety Disorders
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What do I need to know about screening for anxiety disorders?
Screening means you are checked for an anxiety disorder even if you do not have signs or symptoms. Regular screening can find problems early and treatment can begin. Screening is recommended starting at age 19 until age 64. Your healthcare provider will tell you how often you should be screened.
What do I need to know about anxiety disorders?
Anxiety is an emotion that causes you to feel extremely worried or nervous. An anxiety disorder is when these feelings are so strong they cause problems with your daily activities or sleep. Examples of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, separation anxiety, and phobias (fears).
What increases my risk for an anxiety disorder?
- Stressful events such as the death of a loved one, unemployment, or divorce
- Certain health conditions or medicines
- Alcohol, drug, nicotine, or caffeine use
How is screening for anxiety disorders done?
Your healthcare provider will use questionnaires to screen you. These questionnaires help get information about how you are feeling. They also identify your risk for developing an anxiety disorder.
What are the risks of anxiety disorder screening?
A false-positive may happen. This means you are not correctly diagnosed with a condition. This can lead to treatment that is not needed and stigma or labeling.
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Further information
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