Anxiety: When Does Anxiety Become Problematic? Part 1 of 4

We all encounter stress at various points in our lives—those moments that leave us feeling on edge, nervous, or overwhelmed. Whether it’s the pressure of an upcoming exam, meeting a deadline, or resolving a conflict, these experiences are part of being human. However, it’s important to distinguish between stress and anxiety, as they are not the same.

Stress tends to be temporary, often linked to external situations, and typically subsides once the triggering event is resolved. Anxiety, on the other hand, is more persistent. It may linger even when the external cause is no longer present, and it often manifests as excessive worry that doesn’t align with the actual situation.

Understanding Anxiety Through an Example

Consider Ashley, who has an opportunity to visit a new client and take a step forward in growing their business. While most people might feel a little nervous about navigating an unfamiliar route, they’d likely turn to problem-solving strategies such as using a GPS or asking a friend for advice.

For Ashley, however, the situation spirals into something far more overwhelming. Severe stomach cramps set in, and the mere thought of the trip becomes so distressing that Ashley decides to cancel the appointment and call in sick. This response, while alleviating the immediate discomfort, results in Ashley missing out on an important business opportunity.

This example highlights how anxiety can become problematic when it interferes with daily functioning and prevents someone from engaging in important tasks or seizing opportunities.

When Anxiety Becomes a Concern

As clinicians, we assess anxiety by looking at its impact on a person’s life. A few key questions we consider include:

• Does anxiety make everyday tasks such as going to work, attending school, or participating in social engagements more difficult than they should be?

• Is the anxiety persistent, rather than a short-term response to a specific stressor?

• Does the anxiety cause physical symptoms such as muscle tension, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or sleep disturbances?

Many individuals describe these physical manifestations with phrases like:

• “My stomach is in a knot.”

• “My body can’t seem to relax.”

• “My mind just won’t shut off.”

Anxiety often begins as a cognitive process (persistent or intrusive thoughts) but quickly extends to a physical response, making it even more disruptive to daily life.

The Good News

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you care about, it’s important to know that help is available. With the right support, you can learn strategies to manage anxiety effectively, reducing its impact on your daily life and enhancing your overall wellbeing.

The journey to overcoming anxiety is one of patience and growth, but it is entirely possible to reclaim a sense of control, peace, and purpose. In the coming weeks, we’ll explore practical techniques and tools for managing anxiety and building resilience. Stay tuned!