Anxiety is a natural human response to stress, uncertainty, and perceived threat. In many situations, it serves a protective purpose, helping people prepare, focus, or respond to challenges. However, when anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or disconnected from present circumstances, it can begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
At one end is situational anxiety, such as nervousness before an important event or concern during a stressful period. At the other end is persistent anxiety, which can feel constant, intrusive, or disproportionate to the situation at hand.
What matters most is not the presence of anxiety, but its duration, intensity, and impact on functioning.
Persistent anxiety tends to affect both internal experience and outward behavior. It may be present even during periods of relative calm and can feel difficult to control or reason through.
Feeling on edge, restless, or unable to relax
Anticipating negative outcomes without cause
Difficulty tolerating uncertainty or ambiguity
A near constant sense of worry or unease
Some individuals experience anxiety primarily as panic episodes rather than constant worry.
These episodes can feel alarming and may occur without obvious triggers. For many people, fear of having another panic episode becomes a source of ongoing anxiety itself.
Some individuals may qualify for public insurance or assistance programs that cover mental health and substance use treatment.
Persistent anxiety rarely exists in isolation. It commonly overlaps with or contributes to other challenges.
It may be time to consider additional support when anxiety:
Long-Lasting Symptoms
Persists for weeks or months without relief
Increasing Severity
Escalates in frequency or intensity
Daily Life Disruption
Interferes with work, school, or relationships
Avoidance Behavior
Leads to avoidance of important activities
Unhealthy Coping
Contributes to substance use or other coping behaviors
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