How do I know if I have anxiety? Comments Off on How do I know if I have anxiety?

Anxiety can show up differently for different people, but at its core, it’s like your brain is stuck in “danger mode” even when nothing is actually threatening you.

Here are some common experiences that people with anxiety become aware of. If you’ve experienced some or most of these, it’s probably anxiety! (I’ve broken the symptoms down for clarity):

Mentally:

• Racing thoughts: Your mind won’t slow down – you’re overthinking everything, imagining worst-case scenarios.
• Constant worry: Even about small things. A feeling of dread, like having a background hum you can’t switch off.
• “What if” spirals: Such as fixating on potential problems or future disasters that never actually happen.
• Difficulty concentrating: It’s hard to focus when your brain is constantly scanning for danger.

Physically:

• Tense muscles: Jaw clenching, hunched shoulders, body feeling tight or on edge.
• Racing heart or chest tightness: Like your body is preparing to run from something – even if you’re just sitting still.
• Shallow breathing or feeling short of breath
• Stomach issues: Nausea, butterflies, or needing the bathroom more often.
• Fatigue: Anxiety is exhausting – your body’s running on overdrive.

Emotionally:

• Irritability: Everything feels a little too much – sounds, people, tasks.
• Overwhelmed: You feel like you’re drowning in things to do, even if there’s not that much.
• Self-doubt: You might constantly question yourself or feel like you’re not handling things “right.”

Socially:

• Avoiding situations: Social events, phone calls, or even errands can feel terrifying.
• Worrying about what others think: Replaying conversations, fearing judgment, or feeling like a burden.

Sometimes you know your fear is irrational – but that doesn’t make it go away. Anxiety isn’t just “worrying too much”; it’s like your mind and body are reacting to an invisible threat with real intensity.

The good news is that anxiety is treatable. Feel free to reach out to me to find out if I can help you understand what’s happening, how to respond more positively, and to live a life with fewer symptoms and effective ways to overcome this troublesome condition.