Did you know that you can assess your anxiety level using the Beck Anxiety Inventory? It's a list that describes 21 common anxiety symptoms, both physical and mental. Take a close look at each symptom and rate it on a 3-point scale, depending on how often you've been experiencing it during the past week. Let's get started!
Numbness or tingling
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Feeling hot
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Wobbliness in legs
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Unable to relax
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Fear of worst happening
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Dizzy or lightheaded
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Heart pounding / racing
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Unsteady
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Terrified or afraid
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Nervous
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Hands trembling
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Feeling of choking
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Shaky / unsteady
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Fear of losing control
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Difficulty in breathing
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Fear of dying
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Scared
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Indigestion
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Faint / lightheaded
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Face flushed
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Hot / cold sweats
Not at all
Mildly or moderately
Severely
Low anxiety
Your answers show that your anxiety level is within the norm. However, if your anxiety worries you, you should play it safe and go see a psychiatrist. This test is a self-diagnostic tool that can only give a superfluous assessment. Remember that no test can replace professional help. Prevention is better than cure. Do you agree?
Moderate anxiety
It seems that you're experiencing anxiety on a regular basis. You might have unresolved problems (whether at work or in your personal life) that prevent you from feeling safe and secure. If you feel strong mental discomfort caused by continuous or recurrent anxiety, be sure to see a specialist as soon as possible. Neurotic disorder and other psychological problems are easier to prevent than cure!
High level of anxiety
Your answers indicate that you have a potentially concerning level of anxiety. The alarming mental and physical sympthoms signal that you're not OK. The best thing you can do is to seek professional help. You need to eliminate the cause of your anxiety before it transforms into a neurotic disorder or other menal health problems. Don't be afraid to talk to a psychiatrist. A professional (sometimes with the help of medication) can help you handle the issues that keep you from enjoying your life.