Do I have Anxiety?

Written by Kelsey Thompson, LMFT (124586), A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA. Light Within Counseling in Roseville, CA.

So What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a basic human emotion that all of us experience in our life. Anxiety is a natural response to stress, although it’s a very uncomfortable emotion, it is meant to protect us, to help us prepare, and it helps keep us safe. Anxiety can be characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or unease. Anxiety symptoms can affect both the mind and body, often causing persistent worry, fear, or unease that feels difficult to control.

Common emotional symptoms:

  • Excessive nervousness
  • Restlessness
  • Hypervigilence
  • Feeling of dread
  • Overthinking
  • Unable to make decisions (often needing to turn to others to help make a choice)
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Dissociation
  • Catastrophizing
  • Irritability
  • Emotional numbness

Physically symptoms:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath
  • A feeling of tightness in your chest
  • Panic attacks
  • Sweating
  • Shaking/Trembling
  • Stomach upset
  • Digestive issues
  • Nausea and vomiting

Anxiety may also influence behavior, causing avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations or a need for constant reassurance. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but when they become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, they may indicate an anxiety disorder. Getting treatment for anxiety is crucial because, without intervention, anxiety disorders can significantly impact mental, physical, and social well-being over the long term. Untreated anxiety can lead to chronic stress, which takes a toll on the body and increases the risk of serious health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and weakened immune function.

Mentally, prolonged anxiety can contribute to depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions, which may impair academic, professional, and personal growth. Socially, anxiety can cause isolation, strained relationships, and difficulty maintaining connections due to fear of judgment or avoidance of social situations.

Over time, untreated anxiety can also lead to maladaptive coping mechanisms, like substance abuse, overeating, or avoidance behaviors, which further complicate recovery. Early treatment not only alleviates symptoms but also prevents these long-term consequences, helping individuals build resilience, improve overall quality of life, and achieve lasting emotional well-being.

Common Types of Anxiety Disorders:

  1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive worry about various aspects of life.
  2. Panic Disorder: Sudden and intense episodes of fear or panic attacks.
  3. Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of social situations or being judged.
  4. Specific Phobias: Intense fear of particular objects or situations.
  5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).

Why Does Anxiety Happen?

Anxiety is influenced by a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, including:

  • Genetics (family history of anxiety).
  • Imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.
  • Life experiences (trauma, stress, or significant changes).
  • Attachment patterns.

Do I have anxiety?

If you’ve read this and feel like many of the symptoms and causes resonate with your experience, I encourage you to reach out to a therapist at Light Within Counseling for a professional assessment. Recognizing that you’re struggling is a brave first step, and seeking support can provide clarity and relief. Anxiety symptoms can feel overwhelming, but they are also highly treatable with the right approach.

A therapist can help you understand whether what you’re experiencing is part of a normal response to stress or an anxiety disorder that might benefit from targeted interventions. Through therapy, you can gain tools to manage symptoms, uncover root causes, and build coping strategies that improve your quality of life. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an empowering decision to take care of yourself and your mental health. You don’t have to face these feelings alone, and reaching out for support could be the start of a transformative journey.

How to Cope with Anxiety:

  • Engage in regular physical activity.
  • Talk to a therapist (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and more).
  • Consider medications if recommended by a doctor.
  • Focus on self-care: Healthy sleep, diet, and relaxation techniques.
  • Practice mindfulness or meditation.

If anxiety feels overwhelming or persistent, seeking professional support can help you regain control and improve your quality of life.

Remember, Anxiety is a wave, not a permanent state. I breathe, I ride, and I will find calm on the other side.

With Love,

Kelsey Thompson, LMFT (124586)

Light Within Counseling, Roseville, CA