Is Anxiety Normal? When to Consider Therapy.

We've all had that moment at 2:00am- we're staring at the ceiling, attempting to sleep, but our minds are going a million miles a minute with no end in sight. You are replaying everything that went wrong in the day prior and everything that could go wrong in the day that is coming. Hello, anxiety.

The reality is, everyone feels anxious at times. It is a part of being human. But sometimes it becomes all consuming. How can we tell the difference?

When Anxiety is Just Being Human

Anxiety is a physiological response to an either real or perceived threat of danger. It is a natural response within all of us meant to help keep us safe from harm. Feeling anxious about a big storm? Heart rate going up when you hear a fire alarm? Butterflies before a big presentation at work? A bit jittery before meeting new people? These are signs that your body is just trying to keep you safe- though it can be a bit overzealous at times. In general though, it is normal to feel anxious when we try new things, step out of comfort zones, or face a real threat.

When Anxiety Overstays its Welcome

Certain situations certainly warrant a bit of anxiety. In those situations, we want to practice self-compassion and healthy coping skills, reminding ourselves that this discomfort is just temporary and will pass shortly.

But what about when the anxiety feels constant? What about when the anxiety is interfering with your work, your relationships, or your sleep? What about when those anxious feelings are leading to you retreating and avoiding things that you know you need to do or previously desired to do? What about when sending an email feels like climbing Mount Everest or when navigating a disagreement feels like the world is coming to an end? This is when we start getting beyond "normal" anxiety and need to realize that it might be overstaying its welcome just a bit.

When Should I Consider Therapy?

It might be time to consider therapy to help you manage your anxiety if:

• It feels like anxiety is running the show and you are just being dragged along.

• When your normal coping skills like talking to a friend, praying, and going for a walk and aren't cutting it anymore.

• When avoiding anything that is remotely challenging or uncomfortable becomes your default setting.

• When your body starts carrying the weight of your stress and anxiety- regular headaches, stomach issues, constant tension, increased heart rate, poor sleep quality, etc.

• When the anxiety is stopping you from doing the things you actually want to do or things that are important to you.

• When making even small decisions feels life altering.

• When you're tired of trying to do it all alone.

What Next?

If these things apply to you, it might be time to consider getting some extra support for the anxiety that you are carrying. Yes, some anxiety is normal, but if it's become all consuming, it's time to get some extra support. You aren't weak for needing help, you are wise enough to recognize that we aren't meant to do everything in life alone. Anxiety doesn't have to run the show forever. Peace is possible one step at a time.

You're Not Alone.

Anxiety is a part of the human experience, but it doesn't have to consume your life. It is common, but also manageable and help is available.

If you are in the state of Florida and are ready to tackle the anxiety that has overstayed its welcome, I would be honored to walk alongside you. You bring your story, I'll bring the tools, and we can figure it out together.

Just remember, wherever you are in your journey, you're not alone. There is hope and peace is closer than you think.