Anxiety usually arises in times of uncertainty, ambiguity, or novelty – when something is new and we have no frame of reference for it.
It's natural to worry about things like starting a new job or moving house. But once the event has happened, we should be able to relax and move on.
However, sometimes we find it difficult to control our worries and fears. These constant feelings of anxiety then affect our daily life, work, and relationships.
symptoms of anxiety
We often feel anxious when we’re worried, tense, or afraid. Particularly about things that are about to happen, or which we think could happen in the future.
Anxiety is a natural response that happens when we consciously or subconsciously feel we’re under threat. It helps us mobilise our resources to cope with that threat.
We can experience anxiety through our thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Some of the symptoms of anxiety include:
Most people feel anxious sometimes. It's common to experience some anxiety while coping with stressful events or changes, especially if they could have a big impact on your life.
If those feelings are impacting your day-to-day life, it may be time to seek help. Sharing how you feel will lessen your burden and may encourage others to speak up.
when does anxiety become a problem?
Anxiety can become a mental health problem if it impacts on your ability to live your life as fully as you want to.
If you experience one or more of the following on a regular basis, you may have higher than normal levels of anxiety:
- you experience strong feelings of anxiety, or the anxiety lasts for a long time
- your fears or worries are out of proportion with the situation
- you avoid situations that might cause you anxiety
- your worries are distressing or hard to control
- you regularly experience symptoms of anxiety, which could include panic attacks
- you find it hard to go about your everyday life or do things you enjoy
- you obsess over negative experiences
Written by mental health expert Kirsty Lilley
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