Anxiety. What’s Normal and What’s Not

Anxiety is a totally normal part of life—we all feel it from time to time. But when it starts taking over, sticking around too often, or making everyday life a struggle, it could be an anxiety disorder. Lets look at what it normal and whats not.

GAD is when worry goes into overdrive. People with GAD feel anxious about all sorts of things, even when there’s no real reason. It can leave you feeling restless, tense, exhausted, and constantly on edge.

Kids can experience different types of anxiety too, like selective mutism (where they can talk at home but not in other situations) or generalised anxiety disorder.

This is when someone is constantly worried about having a serious illness, even when medical tests say otherwise.

Panic attacks are sudden bursts of intense fear or anxiety, often coming out of nowhere. They can bring on a racing heart, sweating, dizziness, and a feeling like something really bad is about to happen. It’s terrifying, but with the right help, it can be managed.

Whether it’s spiders, flying, heights, or public speaking, phobias are intense fears of certain things or situations. Even thinking about the fear can cause extreme anxiety.

This isn’t just being a bit shy—it’s a deep fear of social situations, worrying about being judged or embarrassed. It can make things like meeting new people, speaking up, or even just going out feel overwhelming.

OCD is more than just liking things neat and tidy. It involves obsessive thoughts (like worrying about germs or safety) and compulsions (like excessive handwashing or checking things repeatedly) that take over daily life.

PTSD can develop after experiencing something traumatic, leaving a person with flashbacks, nightmares, and a constant state of alertness. Certain sounds, places, or situations can trigger distressing memories.

More common in kids, but adults can experience it too. It’s when being away from loved ones causes extreme distress, worry, or fear.

Agoraphobia is the fear of being stuck somewhere you can’t easily escape, like in crowds, public transport, or wide-open spaces. It’s often linked with panic disorder.

If any of these sound familiar, know that anxiety is manageable—and you don’t have to go through it alone. I’ll be diving deeper into each type of anxiety in the coming months, but if you’re struggling now, let’s chat about what might help.

It’s important to note that anxiety disorders can be managed, and individuals experiencing significant anxiety should seek professional help from a mental health provider. Effective treatments may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both, tailored to the specific type of anxiety disorder and individual needs.

Written by Kate G

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing significant distress or believe you may have social anxiety disorder, please consult a qualified mental health professional for personalised support.