Anxiety and Stress — The Undefeated Illness of the Modern Age

Many people today suffer from anxiety and stress due to the challenges and demands of modern life — the pressures of work, competition, and daily responsibilities. According to statistics, over 275 million people worldwide experience anxiety and stress.

While most people face some level of anxiety in their daily lives, a significant number struggle with severe anxiety disorders, often feeling trapped in a vicious cycle of overthinking, procrastination, and self-doubt. Anxiety has become one of the most common mental health conditions of the modern era — truly the disease of our time.

Do you ever experience anxiety or tension?

If so, you can take the Anxiety Test (from exceptionalindividuals.com) to discover whether your level of anxiety is mild, moderate, or excessive.

Stress and Anxiety vs. Anxiety Disorder

A young woman holds her cheek and looks downward with signs of worry — anxiety is one of the most common mental illnesses of modern times.

According to depression.org.nz, it’s completely normal to feel anxious in certain situations — for example, before an exam or an important interview.

However, an anxiety disorder involves the following:

Interference with daily life: anxiety severe enough to prevent you from performing essential daily activities.
Persistent intensity: ongoing or overwhelming feelings of anxiety.
Disproportionate fear: a level of fear or worry that is not in proportion to the actual danger or threat.

Symptoms That Indicate You May Be Experiencing Anxiety

Fear of the future or constant feelings of tension and unease
Inability to stop or control anxious thoughts
Excessive worry about multiple aspects of life
Difficulty relaxing
Restlessness and inability to sit still
Irritability or becoming easily agitated
A sense of dread, as if something terrible might happen

(Related link: Tips to Help You Stay Calm)

Do You Worry Too Much? Take the Anxiety Test to Find Out

According to exceptionalindividuals.com, the Anxiety Test helps assess Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) by asking about feelings such as nervousness, restlessness, and difficulty relaxing — and how frequently these symptoms occur.

Main Factors That May Increase Anxiety

Abuse or violence
Relationship problems (friends, family, or partner)
Body image concerns
Low self-esteem or poor self-image
Loneliness or isolation

When Do You Feel Anxious?

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

When Do You Find It Difficult to Relax?

A young woman sits on the floor, resting her hand on her knee, showing clear signs of anxiety — the illness of our age.

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

When You Feel Distressed or Anxious:

I can control my anxiety and stress through certain activities.
My anxiety increases but eases when I engage in different tasks.
I find it hard to relax.
I suffer from restlessness and difficulty sitting still.
I feel uneasy and fearful, as if something terrible might happen.

Do You Feel So Anxious That It’s Hard to Sit Still?

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

Do You Have a Pet That Supports Your Mental Health?

Yes
I’d like to have one and am planning to get one
I’m interested but can’t afford one or don’t have time
No, and I’m not interested
I dislike pets

Do You Get Irritated or Annoyed Easily?

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

How Often Do You Feel a Sense of Dread, as If Something Terrible Might Happen?

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

Do You Experience an Increased Heart Rate (Palpitations) Without a Known Medical Reason?

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

Do You Feel Fatigued and Then Become Tense, Especially at the End of the Day?

A young woman crouches down, holding her head in distress — anxiety severe enough to interfere with daily life.

Never
Occasionally
Every few days
Two or three times a week
Almost every day

Anxiety Test Results

Mostly 1s: You’re generally calm and balanced. Any anxiety you experience is mild and manageable.
Mostly 2s: You experience mild, general anxiety but can control and adapt to it effectively.
Mostly 3s: You’re naturally prone to anxiety and tension. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, brisk walking, or yoga to manage moderate anxiety.
Mostly 4s: You experience severe anxiety that is difficult to control, especially under pressure. You should pay attention to this, as it may require professional help.
Mostly 5s: You likely suffer from an anxiety disorder and should consult a mental health specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Don’t ignore it — untreated anxiety may worsen over time.

What to Do If You Score High on the Anxiety Test

Don’t self-diagnose: A high score indicates possible anxiety but isn’t a formal diagnosis.
Consult a specialist: Seek professional evaluation and diagnosis from a mental health expert.
Ask for help: If you suspect you may have an anxiety disorder, reach out for support regardless of your test score — early help makes a big difference.