Anxiety – When To Seek Help

Anxiety. We all have it from time to time. And, according to the ADAA, anxiety is the most common mental illness in America.

But when is it time to see a professional therapist to help us cope with our anxiety?

If you believe you have been dealing with anxiety for a while now, then here are some telltale signs that it’s time to seek help.

Your health is suffering - Anxiety and the stress it brings can negatively affect your physical health. If you’re experiencing a string of physical ailments - such as headaches, frequent colds, problems sleeping, and unexpected muscle pain – anxiety may be a root cause. Of course, always consult with your primary care doctor as well.

Your relationships are suffering – If you are having difficulty maintaining relationships – with family, friends, and your significant other – anxiety may be a culprit. High anxiety levels often result in feelings of irritation and unhappiness when interacting with others.

Your emotions are out of control – An anxious person may feel extremely emotional on a regular basis. Feeling emotions is, of course, a healthy thing. If your emotions are more intense than usual, and hit you much more frequently, anxiety levels could be a cause.

Struggles at work or at school – Difficulty focusing, low energy levels, and a general sense of disinterest are all signs of anxiety at play.

Feeling overwhelmed – If the rigors of your everyday life suddenly feel overwhelming, it may be a sign that your mind’s coping mechanisms are compromised. Anxiety has a way of making the normal feel like the weight of the world.

Lack of joy – If the things that made you happy all your life suddenly feel uninteresting, if you have an ongoing sense of dread, or an ongoing feeling of tension, then anxiety may be a culprit.

If one or more of the above describe what you are going through, please consider speaking with a professional therapist. You are certainly not alone in your struggle, and you deserve to recapture the peace of mind and joy that escapes you these days.

Karen is a compassionate, experienced, and licensed counselor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She focuses on providing effective treatment for Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression.