I can offer some general insights that might help you understand why your psychologist is mentioning anxiety.
Shared symptoms: Many mental health conditions have overlapping symptoms, which can make it challenging to pinpoint a specific diagnosis. Anxiety, for example, can present with a wide range of symptoms, including excessive worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can be present in other conditions as well, making it important for your psychologist to explore various possibilities.
Anxiety as a common condition: Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. Because of its prevalence, psychologists and mental health professionals often consider anxiety as a possibility when evaluating a patient's symptoms.
Anxiety as a co-occurring condition: Sometimes, anxiety can co-occur with other mental health issues. It's not uncommon for individuals with depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other conditions to also experience symptoms of anxiety. In such cases, addressing anxiety becomes an important part of the overall treatment plan.
Subtle signs: Sometimes, patients may not be fully aware of their anxiety or may not recognize the symptoms as anxiety-related. Psychologists have experience in identifying subtle signs of anxiety through discussions, observations, and various assessment tools.
Treatment approach: Even without a formal diagnosis, discussing anxiety can be helpful in understanding and addressing emotional and psychological challenges. Many therapeutic approaches are effective for anxiety, and exploring these strategies may benefit you, even if a specific diagnosis hasn't been made yet.
Remember that a psychologist's role is to carefully assess and understand your unique experiences and challenges. If you have concerns about the discussions or the process, it's essential to communicate openly with your psychologist to better understand their perspective and how it relates to your situation. They can clarify their reasoning and the potential benefits of addressing anxiety-related concerns in your therapy sessions. Always feel free to ask questions and express your thoughts during therapy sessions.