Anxiety is something everyone experiences. It’s the body’s built-in alarm system, designed to help us respond to danger. But sometimes that alarm goes off too often, too loudly, or when there’s no real threat. When that happens, anxiety can begin to interfere with daily life.
How anxiety can show up
Anxiety affects both the mind and the body. Some people experience:
- Persistent worry or “what if” thinking
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- A racing heart, shortness of breath or sweating
- Stomach upset, headaches or muscle tension
- Difficulty sleeping
- Avoiding situations that feel stressful
Everyday anxiety vs. an anxiety disorder
Feeling nervous before a big event is common. An anxiety disorder may be considered when anxiety is frequent, intense, hard to control, and affects your ability to function over time. Only a qualified clinician can make that determination.
What can help
Support for anxiety is often personalized. Depending on your needs, options may include:
- Supportive therapy to understand patterns and build coping skills
- Practical strategies such as breathing techniques, grounding and routines
- Psychoeducation to understand how anxiety works
- Medication when clinically appropriate
Small steps you can try today
- Slow your breathing: try inhaling for four counts and exhaling for six.
- Notice and name what you’re feeling without judging it.
- Limit caffeine if it makes you feel jittery.
- Move your body. Even a short walk can help.
These strategies are not a substitute for professional care. If anxiety is affecting your life, consider talking with a qualified clinician.
Learn more about anxiety, anxiety treatment at SBHS, and how to get started.
