If you’re noticing that worry or anxiety is persistent, overwhelming, or affecting your ability to function at work, home, or in social situations, you may be concerned that it’s a sign of something more serious.
Find out more about worry and anxiety in adults, and how we might be able to help.
Feeling worried or anxious from time to time is a normal part of life. Everyday pressures, deadlines, life changes, or uncertainty can all trigger feelings of tension or nervousness. Worry can sometimes help us plan ahead or stay alert, but when it becomes frequent, intense, or difficult to control, it may start to interfere with daily life.
If you’re noticing that worry or anxiety is persistent, overwhelming, or affecting your ability to function at work, home, or in social situations, you may be concerned that it’s a sign of something more serious. Ongoing anxiety is not a personal weakness and understanding what’s contributing to it can help you find ways to manage it and protect your wellbeing.
When is worry or anxiety a problem?
Anxiety becomes a problem when it starts to interfere with your daily life. Occasional nervousness or stress is natural, but prolonged anxiety can affect sleep, concentration, relationships, and overall mental and physical health. Recognising when worry is excessive or persistent is an important step in finding support and strategies to manage it.
Everyone experiences periods of heightened worry, but if these feelings are preventing you from completing everyday tasks, enjoying activities, or maintaining healthy relationships, it’s worth addressing. Persistent anxiety can also contribute to low mood, fatigue, and difficulty coping with life’s usual demands.
Signs of a worry or anxiety problem may include:
Constantly feeling on edge, tense, or restless.
Difficulty controlling worries or racing thoughts.
Avoiding situations, places, or activities due to fear or anxiety.
Physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, muscle tension, or stomach upset linked to worry.
Feeling fatigued, irritable, or unable to concentrate because of ongoing anxiety.