When Is Anxiety Too Much?
Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action
Anxiety is a natural part of life—and in many ways, it’s a healthy one. But in today’s world, where mental health conversations are more common than ever, the term “anxiety” is often misunderstood. It’s easy to label any uncomfortable feeling as anxiety, but not all anxiety is unhealthy.
In fact, feeling anxious from time to time is as normal as feeling happy 😊 or angry 😠. We make around 35,000 decisions every day—so it’s no surprise our minds can feel overwhelmed. But how can we know when anxiety becomes too much? When should you consider reaching out for help?
Let’s explore how to identify unhealthy anxiety, what causes it, and how to take steps toward healing. 🌱
What Is Anxiety, Really?
According to the American Psychological Association, anxiety is “an emotion characterized by apprehension and somatic symptoms of tension in which an individual anticipates impending danger, catastrophe, or misfortune.”
Put simply, anxiety is the body’s internal alarm system 🚨. It’s what makes you step back from a cliff’s edge or stay alert before a big exam. This protective emotion becomes problematic, however, when it starts interfering with your daily life.
For instance:
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🧗 Feeling a little nervous before hiking = healthy.
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🚫 Avoiding hikes entirely due to fear = unhealthy anxiety.
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🎓 Being focused before a test = helpful.
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❌ Failing a test because of overwhelming nerves = anxiety that has gone too far.
🔍 Common Causes of Unhealthy Anxiety
Through our work with clients, we’ve identified five key contributors to anxiety that often cross the line from manageable to disruptive:
1️⃣ Living Without Intention or Purpose 💼⏳
When we operate without direction—investing time and energy into jobs, hobbies, or routines that don’t align with our values—we may begin to feel unfulfilled, restless, or stuck. This emotional disconnect can quickly fuel chronic anxiety.
Ask yourself: Are the things I’m doing each day aligned with my goals, beliefs, or purpose? 🤔
2️⃣ Lack of Healthy Coping Skills 🛠️😟
Anxiety thrives in environments where there’s no relief. Without sustainable coping strategies, we often turn to temporary fixes like binge-watching 📺, overeating 🍩, or avoidance. These behaviors might soothe us momentarily but usually compound our stress in the long run.
Ask yourself: Am I coping in a way that helps me long-term? 🧘♀️
3️⃣ Avoidance of Discomfort 🏃♂️💨
Avoiding anxiety-inducing tasks might feel easier in the moment—but it usually worsens the issue. Think of avoidance like piling trash into a bin 🗑️ without ever emptying it. Eventually, it overflows and creates a bigger mess.
Ask yourself: Am I delaying action or avoiding situations that really need attention? 🧩
4️⃣ Unhealthy Comparisons 📱📉
Comparison is a silent anxiety trigger. Setting internal deadlines or measuring your life against someone else’s highlight reel often leads to disappointment and shame. Remember: your journey is valid, even if it doesn’t look like someone else’s.
Ask yourself: Am I measuring my success by someone else’s timeline? ⏰💭
5️⃣ Lack of Real Connection 💬🤝
In the digital age, we may have thousands of online “connections” but still feel deeply isolated. True community means walking through life with others, sharing experiences, and offering support. Without this, anxiety can feel heavier—and lonelier.
Ask yourself: Do I have a support system I can truly rely on? 🫂
🛑 You Don’t Have to Manage Anxiety Alone
Recognizing the difference between normal anxiety and unhealthy anxiety is the first step. If you see yourself in any of the patterns above, it might be time to take action.
Our licensed therapists specialize in helping individuals identify their anxiety triggers and build healthy coping mechanisms. Whether you’re dealing with avoidance, comparison, or lack of purpose, you’re not alone—and support is available. 💡
💬 Ready to Make a Change?
Let’s work together to create a healthier relationship with anxiety.
👉 Click here to schedule a session with one of our professional therapists.