What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, uncertainty, or perceived danger. It’s the body’s way of preparing to deal with a threat — often called the “fight or flight” response. While some anxiety is normal and even helpful (e.g., helping us meet deadlines or stay alert in dangerous situations), persistent or overwhelming anxiety can interfere with daily life.
When anxiety becomes constant, excessive, or out of proportion to the situation, it may be part of an anxiety disorder. These are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Common types of anxiety disorders include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Panic Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Phobias
Health Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (though these are sometimes categorized separately)
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do We Experience Anxiety?
Anxiety can show up in many ways — physically, emotionally, and behaviourally. Everyone’s experience is unique, but common symptoms include:
Physical Symptoms:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing
- Sweating or trembling
- Stomach discomfort or nausea
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Muscle tension
Emotional & Mental Symptoms:
- Persistent worry or fear
- Feeling on edge or restless
- Trouble concentrating
- Overthinking or “what if” thinking
- Irritability
Behavioural Symptoms:
- Avoiding certain places, people, or situations
- Compulsive behaviors (in OCD)
- Reassurance-seeking
- Procrastination or perfectionism driven by fear
It’s important to note that anxiety can sometimes feel disconnected from any specific trigger — you may feel anxious even when everything “seems fine.”
Is Anxiety Treatable?
Yes — anxiety is highly treatable. With the right support and approach, many people experience significant relief and gain tools to manage their symptoms effectively.
When to Seek Help?
If anxiety is interfering with your daily life, relationships, or sense of well-being, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional. You don’t have to navigate this alone — support is available.
Take the First Step
If you’re struggling with anxiety or simply want to better understand your experiences, I’m here to help. Together, we can explore what you’re going through and work toward meaningful, lasting change.