What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is often characterized by difficulties managing racing thoughts, fears, and worry about various situations and stressors. Thoughts may focus on “the worst case scenario” and energy might be spent figuring out how to stop the anticipated event from happening or finding “guarantee” and reassurance for the best outcome possible in the feared situation.

Additional symptoms may also include:

• Feelings of restlessness

• Muscular tensions

• Difficulties concentrating and focusing

• Increased irritability

• Easily fatigued

• Struggles to fall or stay asleep because of worry

Although certain levels of anxiety can be helpful and normal (e.g., double-checking to ensure something is done properly, “stranger danger,” reaction to a new and sudden change, being scared of the unknown or what to expect), it can become debilitating and distressing when thoughts are excessive and consistently overwhelming for at least 6 or more months. This usually leads to avoidance for a temporary relief from the anticipated future threat and feelings of fear but continually doing so can worsen symptoms of anxiety, as well as create and/or increase specific fears and phobias.

Specific phobias may include fear of flying, heights, animals, medical procedures, leaving the house, etc. Other examples of anxiety disorders include separation anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety.

If you find that you have been struggling to manage your fears and worries on your own, please know that we are here to help and that you don’t have to do it by yourself. We will support and help you learn evidenced-based skills to address your anxiety and live beyond the fears!