Expert reveals the secret signs that could indicate that you are suffering from anxiety

Do simple tasks like jumping into shops or meeting friends make you panic or worry?

The underlying anxiety could be to blame.

What began as an evolutionary reflex to protect us from danger – the fight or flight response that floods the body with adrenaline – can now be triggered very easily by the stress of modern life.

The same chemical reactions leave us anxious, exhausted, paranoid, frightened and stressed, often for seemingly minimal things.

With 22% of women and 15% of men who suffer from it all or most of the time, anxiety can also cause physical symptoms such as nausea, chest pain, sweating and even choking.

You do not have to suffer, though. Just answer our quick quiz and follow our tips to help you reduce your anxiety for good. And, of course, always talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about anxiety or other mental health issues.

Do you feel unable to control your anxiety or worry?

A. Rarely ❑ B. Sometimes ❑ Always C.

Do you feel exhausted or annoyed by them?

A. Rarely ❑ B. Sometimes ❑ Always C.

Do you have trouble sleeping or concentrating?

A. Rarely ❑ B. Sometimes ❑ Always C.

Are your thoughts intrusive, repetitive and overwhelming?

A. Rarely ❑ B. Sometimes ❑ Always C.

Does your anxiety cause physical symptoms (eg shortness of breath, sweating, chest pain)?

A. Rarely ❑ B. Sometimes ❑ Always C.

Do you avoid going out or seeing friends?

A. Rarely ❑ B. Sometimes ❑ Always C.

Today, Chloe Brotheridge, 33, London hypnotherapist and life coach, anxiety expert and author of The Anxiety Solution, explains in detail your results …

Mainly as

It seems that your anxiety is under control. But sometimes, anxiety is related to the situation (flights, parties, speeches in public) and people can organize life to avoid triggering situations. However, if you find yourself in such a situation, I would suggest that you talk to friends and family you trust or see your doctor before an event.

Mainly Bs

You may be feeling moderate anxiety, so it's a good idea to see your doctor. In the meantime, I encourage you to talk to a friend or family member, or take treatment to manage your anxiety. Do not suffer alone or in silence – sharing your feelings and worries is the first and quickest way to reduce immediate stress.

Mainly Cs

Living with a high level of anxiety is common, as is believing that you are just an anxious person. But anxiety responds well to treatment and therapy. If you see your doctor, chances are you will find something to help you. Hope that things can improve, but contact experts to get help.

Best tips

■ Go out in the nature . Evidence shows that eco-therapy significantly reduces stress and anxiety.

■ Write your thoughts . Putting feelings into words helps to deal with our emotions.

■ Think positively . It may sound cliché, but thinking about three positive things that happen on a daily basis helps your mind to look for the positive rather than the negative.

■ Establish a phone curfew . Placing your phone in airplane mode or not viewing your e-mails after a while can help reduce anxiety.

• Chloe Brotheridge hosts the podcast Calmer You and his website is on calmer-you.com