Be the first to give yourself grace.
Everyone feels anxious from time to time—before a big decision, during change, or when things are uncertain. That’s normal.
But when anxiety starts to take over your thoughts, your energy, and your peace of mind every single day… it might be something more.
It might be an anxiety disorder.
Here are some signs to look out for:
You worry constantly—even about the little stuff
You overthink text messages. You stress about future scenarios that may never happen. The smallest tasks can feel overwhelming. You’re always “on edge,” even when there’s no real danger.
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You try your best and still feel like it’s never enough
You show up, push yourself, get things done—but your brain still whispers, “not good enough.” That inner critic won’t let up, and it feels like you’re never allowed to relax.
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Your anxiety is getting in the way of your daily life
It’s not “just stress” if it’s keeping you from sleeping, socializing, working, or even getting through everyday tasks like grocery shopping or making a phone call.
You feel physically drained or sick from your anxiety
Anxiety isn’t just mental. It can show up as headaches, stomach aches, a racing heart, shortness of breath, or feeling dizzy. Your body might be screaming what your brain is trying to suppress.
You have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
You lie in bed and your thoughts won’t stop. You replay the day. You worry about tomorrow. Even when you’re exhausted, your mind just keeps running.
You avoid situations or people to “stay safe”
Maybe you turn down plans, avoid crowded places, or delay things you used to enjoy. You’re not lazy—you’re trying to protect your nervous system from feeling overwhelmed again.
You often feel restless, irritable, or tearful without a clear reason
Anxiety can make your emotions feel bigger than they are. You might get snappy, cry easily, or feel like you’re on the verge of a meltdown—and not even know why.
You experience panic attacks
Your heart races, you feel like you can’t breathe, your chest tightens, and your brain screams that something is very wrong—even if nothing actually is. This can be terrifying and very real.
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If any of these sound familiar, please know:
You are not broken.
You are not weak.
You are not alone.
It’s okay to feel this way. It’s not your fault. It’s nothing you did wrong.
You deserve support, not shame. You deserve rest, not guilt.
Just do your best—and that is enough.
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I’m Abby, and I created these mini blogs to share my own personal stories and thoughts around anxiety and invisible illnesses.
It may be 2024, but these invisible struggles still don’t get talked about enough.
We wait until we’re falling apart… until it’s too late.
Let’s end the stigma—together.
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-Abby