Overview
Anxiety is the mind and body's alarm system stuck on. It shows up mentally (worry, dread, racing thoughts) and physically (rapid heart, chest tightness, GI upset, tremor). It becomes a disorder when it's persistent, disproportionate, and impairing.
Symptoms to watch for
- Excessive worry that's hard to control
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep problems
- Physical: racing heart, chest tightness, shortness of breath, GI upset
What else could this be?
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Caffeine or substance use
- Depression with anxious features
- PTSD
How it's diagnosed
GAD-7 screening, clinical interview, and basic labs (TSH, sometimes ECG) to rule out mimics.
Treatment
First-line: SSRIs (sertraline, escitalopram) or SNRIs (venlafaxine, duloxetine). Cognitive behavioral therapy is equally effective. Buspirone is a non-controlled add-on. Clindle does not prescribe benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan).
When to book a visit
Book if anxiety is limiting your work, sleep, relationships, or physical health.
Book online todayFrequently asked
What does anxiety feel like?
A mix of dread and physical activation — racing heart, shallow breathing, GI upset, muscle tension — often without a proportionate trigger.
Does Clindle prescribe Xanax?
No — Clindle does not prescribe controlled substances. We prescribe SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone, hydroxyzine, and coordinate therapy.