Carlos Solis
Therapist Claire Patterson of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy identifies a key sign of anxiety: catastrophizing. This is when a person focuses only on worst-case future scenarios.
“Your thoughts can jump from everyday worries to global fears in just 30 seconds,” the expert explains. For instance, the thought “I forgot to make a dentist appointment” can quickly spiral into “What if something serious happens?”
Catastrophizing also shows up in interpersonal relationships. If someone doesn’t respond to a message for a few hours, your mind immediately conjures images of an accident or a breakup. During meetings, you study the other person’s facial expressions, searching for confirmation of your own fears.
The Physiology of Anxiety
Anxiety is not a “whim” or a weakness of character, explains the Daily Mail. The body’s alarm system gets stuck in “danger” mode, even when there is no real threat. Excessive levels of stress hormones trigger real physical symptoms: tension, headaches, and dizziness.
Other anxiety signals include unexplained fear (a heavy feeling in the stomach in the morning), indecisiveness over trivial matters, and procrastination. People cancel plans because they feel down, then later blame themselves for being “inconsistent.”
Coping Mechanisms
Without healthy ways to cope with stress, anxiety can lead to tension, headaches, and dizziness. Effective techniques include positive self-talk, breathing exercises, and seeking support from people around you.
In the UK, 8 million people suffer from anxiety disorders. The wait for psychiatric help can reach 658 days, prompting many to seek alternatives: online therapy and mindfulness practices. Some people find solace in crafts like knitting and pottery.
Photo: Unsplash
