What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal and adaptive part of being human. It shows up when we anticipate uncertainty, prepare for potential challenges, or step outside of our comfort zones. In appropriate amounts, anxiety can help us stay focused, alert, and motivated.
However, when anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or triggered by everyday situations, it can start to feel like your nervous system is constantly “on,” even when there is no immediate danger. Instead of being helpful, it becomes exhausting and disruptive.
Many people with anxiety find themselves caught in cycles of worry, overthinking, and physical tension that feel difficult to interrupt. You might feel as though you are always bracing for something to go wrong, trying to prevent future problems, or mentally rehearsing every possible outcome. Over time, this can make it harder to feel present, trust your own judgment, or feel at ease in your body and daily life.
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Characterized by excessive and persistent worry about a variety of everyday concerns, such as health, work, relationships, or future events. Individuals often describe feeling “on edge” or unable to turn off their worries.
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Marked by intense fear of social situations or performance situations where one may be judged, embarrassed, or scrutinized by others. This often leads to avoidance of social interactions or significant distress during them.
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Marked by persistent worry about having or developing a serious illness, even in the absence of significant medical findings. This often involves frequent checking, reassurance seeking, or avoidance of medical information.