What Does Anxiety Really Look Like?
It’s Not Always Panic Attacks and Racing Hearts
When people think of anxiety, they often picture someone having a panic attack—struggling to breathe, shaking, or overwhelmed with fear. And while that can be one form of anxiety, it’s far from the full picture.
Anxiety wears many masks. It doesn’t always look loud or obvious. In fact, many people experience anxiety daily without even realising it.
Anxiety Might Look Like…
- Irritability or snapping at loved ones
You’re not just in a bad mood—your nervous system might be in overdrive.
- Perfectionism or fear of making mistakes
A constant need to “get it right” may be driven by fear of judgment or failure.
- Overthinking everything
Playing out conversations in your head, second-guessing decisions, or worrying about things that haven’t happened yet.
- Avoiding situations or people
Saying no to events, skipping tasks, or procrastinating because the thought of them feels overwhelming.
- Constant physical tension
Headaches, tight shoulders, an upset stomach, or trouble sleeping can all be signs your body is carrying anxious energy.
- Always being ‘busy’
Sometimes we stay constantly occupied to avoid sitting with uncomfortable thoughts or feelings.
Why It’s Often Missed
Because anxiety can be hidden behind a smile, a busy schedule, or even high achievement, it’s not always easy to spot—from the outside or within yourself.
It’s also common to normalise these experiences. If you’ve been wired for worry for a long time, it can feel like “just the way you are.”
But just because something is common, doesn’t mean it’s healthy or unchangeable.
The Good News: Anxiety is Treatable
You don’t have to live in a constant state of tension or overwhelm. Therapy can help you:
- Understand the root of your anxiety
- Develop practical tools to calm your mind and body
- Learn how to respond rather than react to stress
- Reframe unhelpful thought patterns
You don’t need to wait for things to get worse.
If any of this feels familiar, reaching out is a strong and supportive step forward. Our team of psychologists are here to help you make sense of what you’re feeling—and how to manage it in a way that works for you.