When is Anxiety Too Much?

Anxiety is something we all feel from time to time. It’s that jittery feeling before a big test or the butterflies in your stomach when meeting new people. In small doses, anxiety is normal and can even be helpful. But what happens when anxiety becomes too much? When it starts to take over your life and make everything seem overwhelming? That’s when it’s essential to recognize the signs and seek help. At Authentic Connections Counseling Center, we want to help you explore what to watch out for and how to deal with anxiety that’s become too much.

1. Physical Symptoms: 

One way to tell if your anxiety is too much is by paying attention to your body. Anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms like headaches, tense muscles, fatigue, sweaty palms, and a racing heart. If you find yourself experiencing these physical sensations regularly, it could be a sign that your anxiety is getting out of control.

2. Avoidance Behaviors: 

Think about the things you used to enjoy or the activities that are a part of your daily life. Are you avoiding them because of anxiety? Avoidance behaviors are common in people with anxiety disorders. It’s when you steer clear of situations or activities because they make you anxious. If you notice you’re avoiding things that you once loved or that are necessary for your daily routine, maybe consider seeking therapy. 

3. Interference with Daily Life:

Anxiety should not be preventing you from living your life. If it’s making it difficult to go to school, perform well at work, maintain healthy social relationships, or connect with your family, then it’s gone beyond the normal level. When anxiety starts interfering with your daily responsibilities and relationships, it’s time to address it through therapy. In fact, we have highly skilled therapists that can help you navigate back to your normal routine. 

4. Excessive Worry: 

Worry is a natural part of life, but when it becomes excessive, it’s a red flag. If you find yourself constantly worrying about things that are unlikely to happen or that are beyond your control, your anxiety might be too much. Worry should not dominate your thoughts or keep you up at night. If this is happening, we recommend seeking out therapy to treat your anxiety. 

5. Panic Attacks: 

Panic attacks are like anxiety on steroids. They’re intense episodes of anxiety that can feel overwhelming and even scary. During a panic attack, you might experience chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom. If panic attacks are a part of your life, your anxiety has likely reached a level that needs attention. This can be a scary moment, but here at Authentic Connections Counseling Center we can equip you with the tools to minimize and reduce the intensity of these panic attacks. 

So, what can you do if you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you know?

Seek Help: The first step is to seek help from a mental health professional. Here at Authentic Connections Counseling Center, we have trained therapists that can diagnose and treat anxiety disorders. Don’t try to tough it out on your own. There’s no shame in asking for help when you need it.

Treatment Options: Treatment for anxiety can take different forms, depending on the severity and your specific needs. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be highly effective in teaching you how to manage and reduce anxiety. Medication is another option, which can be prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist. Often, a combination of therapy and medication yields the best results.

Support System: Don’t underestimate the power of having a support system. Share your feelings with friends and family who can offer emotional support. They can be there to listen when you need to talk or accompany you to therapy sessions.

Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet.

Anxiety is a normal part of life, but when it becomes too much, it can interfere with your daily life and cause significant distress. If you notice physical symptoms, avoidance behaviors, interference with daily life, excessive worry, or panic attacks, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. Help is here at Authentic Connections Counseling Center, ready to support you on your journey back to a healthy mindset. Your well-being is worth it, and recovery is possible.

At Authentic Connections Counseling Center, we make it our mission to assign clients to the right therapists and we promise to involve you every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and cared for throughout the entire process. If you would like help in this journey of healing from trauma, we are here to find a therapist that meets your needs and aligns with your values. If you’re ready to make the phone call, please reach out to us at 720-370-3010 or email us at info@authenticconnectionscounseling.com for more information. The right therapist can make all the difference in your path to reducing anxiety and improving your overall well-being and we would be honored to be that difference in your life!