Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes overwhelming or persistent, it can interfere with daily life. Recognising the signs of anxiety is the first step to managing your anxiety. It can help you act before it escalates. The earlier you recognise that you are beginning to feel anxious the easier your anxiety will be to manage. Here are some common indicators:
Physical Symptoms: Anxiety often manifests physically. You might experience a racing heart, shortness of breath, muscle tension, headaches, or feeling unwell in the stomach. You might even need to urgently use the bathroom. These sensations can feel like other conditions, but when they appear in stressful situations or persist without a clear cause, anxiety could be the culprit.
Restlessness or Irritability: Feeling on edge or unusually irritable is a common sign of anxiety. You may have difficulty sitting still or feel easily frustrated by small things that wouldn’t normally bother you. This heightened sense of tension can be exhausting and make it difficult to relax. Some people report feeling overwhelmed and don’t know why. Others find it difficult to concentrate or listen to what others around them are saying or give ‘short’ responses when asked questions.
Racing Thoughts or Excessive Worry: One of the hallmarks of anxiety is an overwhelming sense of worry that feels uncontrollable. Your mind may race, jumping from one concern to another, often focusing on worst-case scenarios. This can make it hard to concentrate or think clearly. You may also find it difficult, if not impossible to see a situation turning out in your favour and this in turn makes you feel even more worried.
Sleep Problems: Anxiety often disrupts sleep. You may find it difficult to fall asleep or wake up frequently during the night. In some cases, anxious thoughts might keep you awake, leading to fatigue during the day. You may even become more anxious before bedtime, worrying that you will not be able to sleep.
Avoidance: Anxiety can cause you to avoid situations or activities that trigger nervousness or fear. You might cancel plans, avoid social interactions, or procrastinate on important tasks because they feel too overwhelming. You might also leave events or places earlier than expected out of worry or feelings of overwhelm.
If these symptoms persist or interfere with your daily life, seeking support from a mental health professional can be helpful in finding more effective coping strategies. Finding ways to manage your anxiety will set you free!