Rising Anxiety Cases: Experts warn of commonly overlooked daily symptoms

August 3, 2025

New Delhi: Medical professionals are raising alarms over a concerning trend: the widespread underdiagnosis of anxiety, owing to subtle and often overlooked symptoms embedded in daily routines.

According to mental health experts, a growing number of individuals are living with undetected anxiety disorders, mistaking critical warning signs as mere personality quirks or everyday stress.

The warning comes amid increasing mental health concerns across India, especially in urban populations, where lifestyle-related stress has become a significant contributor to psychological strain.

A senior psychiatrist explained that anxiety doesn’t always manifest as panic attacks or constant nervousness. “People often ignore signs like overthinking, restlessness, muscle tension, irritability, or even difficulty concentrating symptoms that are frequently misattributed to workload or poor sleep,” he said.

Mental health specialists emphasize that physical symptoms such as jaw clenching, stomach discomfort, sleep disturbances, and unexplained fatigue are often linked to underlying anxiety. In many cases, individuals suffering from chronic anxiety go undiagnosed until it severely impairs their quality of life.

“Cultural stigma, lack of awareness, and normalization of high stress levels mean most people don’t even realize they are struggling with anxiety,” said another doctor. He added that ignoring early signs can lead to worsening mental health conditions including depression or substance abuse.

In response, mental health professionals are urging individuals to prioritize self-awareness and seek early psychological intervention. They also advocate for a broader public health push towards mental wellness education in schools, workplaces, and community spaces.

India’s National Mental Health Survey (2015-16) reported that nearly 10% of the population suffers from anxiety disorders, but experts believe the actual number may be far higher given the ongoing gaps in diagnosis and care.

If left unaddressed, anxiety can lead to long-term psychological and physical health complications. Timely therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medical treatment can offer effective relief, clinicians affirm.