Anxiety is a natural part of the human experience. It’s our body’s way of responding to stress, perceived danger, or uncertainty. Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time—before a big presentation, during life transitions, or when facing the unknown. However, when anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or interferes with daily life, it may signal an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety can show up in many ways: racing thoughts, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, muscle tension, fatigue, or a constant sense of worry. It can also manifest physically, with symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, or gastrointestinal issues.

There are different types of anxiety disorders, including:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, even in the absence of clear stressors.

• Panic Disorder: Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks with intense physical symptoms and fear of future attacks.

• Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of judgment or embarrassment in social situations.

• Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects, situations, or environments.

• Health or Illness Anxiety: Excessive worry about having or developing a serious illness.

At its core, anxiety often stems from an overactive internal alarm system—our brain interpreting safe situations as threats. Therapy can help identify the roots of anxiety, shift unhelpful thought patterns, and develop healthy coping strategies.

Whether your anxiety is recent or something you’ve lived with for years, therapy provides a safe space to explore your experience, regain a sense of control, and feel more grounded in your daily life.