Everyone experiences feelings of anxiousness from time to time – especially given the stressful circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. When you’re under pressure or facing a challenging situation (like the start of a new job or passing a vital exam), your body naturally triggers a “fight-or-flight” response. 

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in Canada, affecting one out of every ten adults. Symptoms correlated with anxiety disorders can vary greatly from person to person. One individual may experience intrusive, obsessive thoughts while another grapples with debilitating panic attacks. 

Seeking professional help may feel overwhelming, but managing and treating symptoms of anxiety is integral to living a happy, healthy life. Here are 5 signs it’s time to treat your anxiety. 

It’s Taking a Toll on Your Physical Health

Whenever your emotional health suffers, it can negatively impact your physical health as well. Research shows a direct link between chronic anxiety and stress and the manifestation of physical symptoms such as headaches, frequent colds and nausea. People may also experience unexplained neck and muscle pain when facing persistent anxiety. 

You No Longer Feel in Control of Your Emotions

From anger to sadness, coping with anxiety can be an emotional rollercoaster when left untreated. Those struggling with anxiety often feel a lack of control – as if they’re in the driver’s seat, but unable to hit the brakes. 

Whenever an unanticipated problem arises, many people automatically adopt a worst-case scenario mindset. This typing of thinking, often referred to as catastrophizing, can feel intense and paralyzing. 

Without seeking the help of a mental health professional, catastrophizing can lead to withdrawal, avoidance and panic attacks. From psychotherapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy, there’s a myriad of methods for exploring and regulating your emotions, as well as adopting techniques to shift your thinking patterns. 

Your Performance at Work or School Has Taken a Hit

Dealing with a mental health issue like anxiety can often nuzzle its way into your everyday life – interfering with your performance at school or in the workplace. Anxiety disorders often impede your ability to focus, causing decreased energy, impaired attention and feelings of apathy. 

A lack of interest paired with poor concentration can often lead to increased errors and reduced productivity in the classroom and workplace. When your performance at work falters, it can put yourself and others in harm’s way. For instance, if you’re a caretaker or police officer, it’s imperative to be in a healthy state of mind at all times.  

You’re Using Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

It’s not uncommon for those grappling with mental health issues to adopt destructive habits, such as substance abuse, compulsive behaviors (gambling, eating, sexual promiscuity, etc), and even exorbitant internet and social media use as a way to distract themselves. While these coping mechanisms can temporarily relieve negative thoughts and anxiety, they ultimately exacerbate the problems you’re facing. What’s more, they often have a way of spiraling out of control in the form of addiction and dependence. 

You’ve Experienced Some Form of Trauma

From abusive relationships to traumatic events, some people suffer from anxiety as a result of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Therapy is an invaluable resource for exploring difficult experiences in a safe environment designed to foster healing. 

While you may have a strong support system of family and friends, oftentimes people are uncomfortable opening up to their loved ones. Or, sometimes, they simply want to protect those they care about most. A mental health professional will be equipped with the mindfulness techniques and coping strategies needed to dismantle traumatic associations. 

When you’re struggling with anxiety, it can cause you to feel disconnected from work, life, friends and family. Over time, you’ll find yourself losing interest altogether in the hobbies or activities that once brought you joy. 

At My Winnipeg Therapist, our mental health professionals have the expertise needed to help free you from negative thoughts, take control of your anxiety and reconnect with the things that make you smile. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you reclaim your light.