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How to recognize the signs of anxiety
- Dr Titilayo Akinsola
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Introduction
Everyone experiences worry or stress from time to time. But when those feelings become persistent, overwhelming, and hard to control, they might be signs of anxiety. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, yet they’re often misunderstood or overlooked.
The aim of this article is to help you understand what anxiety really looks like, how it shows up in everyday life, and when it might be time to seek support.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is the body’s natural response to perceived danger or stress. But unlike short-term worry, chronic anxiety sticks around, sometimes even when there’s no clear reason for it. It can affect your mind, body, and behavior.
Common Types of Anxiety Disorders
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Persistent, excessive worry about everyday situations.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Intense fear of social interactions or being judged by others.
Panic Disorder
Recurring panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear with physical symptoms.
Phobias
Extreme fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., flying, heights, needles).
Key Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety
1. Excessive Worry
Worrying about things that others might find manageable, often imagining the worst-case scenario.
2. Restlessness or Feeling On Edge
A constant sense of unease or being unable to relax—even during quiet moments.
3. Racing Thoughts
Difficulty controlling thoughts, especially when trying to sleep or concentrate.
4. Physical Symptoms
Rapid heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Sweating
Muscle tension
Stomach upset or nausea
5. Sleep Issues
Struggling to fall asleep or waking up frequently due to overthinking or physical discomfort.
6. Avoidance Behaviors
Steering clear of people, places, or situations that might trigger anxiety—even if it limits your life.
7. Difficulty Concentrating
Feeling mentally scattered or unable to focus due to a constant stream of anxious thoughts.
What Anxiety Can Look Like Day-to-Day
Anxiety doesn’t always show up as panic attacks. Sometimes, it’s…
Canceling plans last minute out of fear something will go wrong
Over-preparing for simple tasks to avoid mistakes
Constantly needing reassurance from others
Feeling exhausted from mental overload
When to Seek Support
If anxiety is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily routines, it’s a signal to reach out. A mental health professional can help identify the cause and recommend the right treatment plan—which may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes.
You’re Not Alone
Millions of people live with anxiety—and many manage it successfully with the right tools. The first step is recognizing the signs and knowing you don’t have to face it alone.
For a broader understanding of how anxiety overlaps with depression and ADHD, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Three Overlapping Mental Health Challenges.
Additional Resources
How to Recognize the Signs of Depression
How to Recognize the Signs of ADHD
Author Bio
Dr. Titilayo Akinsola is a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner located in Bel Air, Maryland with over 18 years’ experience working in the healthcare industry.
She provides comprehensive mental health evaluations, individually tailored treatment plans, brief therapy and prescribed psychopharmacological medications where indicated.
Dr. Titilayo Akinsola combines evidence-based practices with clinical experience, and if necessary, collaborates with additional providers to deliver safe and effective care. She offers in-person visits as well as virtual visits (through a secure live video connection) to make it easier to connect.
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