
Anxiety is an uninvited guest at the party, who shows up early, eats all the small chops, and refuses to leave. We’ve all experienced it; the butterflies before a big presentation or the heart-racing panic that hits out of nowhere.
But what is anxiety really, and how can we learn to live with it rather than let it take over our daily lives?
Let’s break it down a little bit
What Is Anxiety Anyway?
Picture this: You’re about to give a presentation at work or school, and your mind starts racing with thoughts like ‘What if I forget what to say?’ or ‘What if I embarrass myself?’ Your heart beats faster, and you feel like you’re ‘on edge.’

That’s what anxiety can feel like when we’re faced with uncertainty or pressure.
In small doses, anxiety is helpful; it keeps you alert, sharp, and ready to tackle challenges, but when it sticks around too long or gets too intense, it can feel like carrying a backpack full of rocks you didn’t sign up for.
Anxiety can manifest in different ways, such as:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry about everyday things, even when there’s no apparent reason to worry.
- Panic Disorder: Recurring panic attacks, which are intense episodes of fear or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of social or performance situations in which you’re exposed to possible scrutiny by others.
- Phobias: Irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities.
Signs You’re Dealing with Anxiety (aka The “Am I the Drama?” Checklist)
Anxiety can look different for everyone, but here are some common signs to take note of:
- Physical Symptoms: Racing heart, sweaty palms, shaky hands, or a stomach that suddenly thinks it’s auditioning for a drumline.
- Emotional Symptoms: Constant worry, a sense of doom, or feeling like you’re spiralling in a sea of “what ifs.”
- Behavioural Symptoms: Avoiding things you normally enjoy, snapping at loved ones, or spending way too much time Googling, “Is it normal to feel this way?”
So, What Can You Do About It?
The good news? You don’t have to let anxiety call the shots; you are the boss of you. Here are a few tools to help you tame the beast:
- Breathe Like You Mean It
Deep breathing isn’t just for yoga enthusiasts. Try this: Breathe in for four seconds, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat until you feel a little bit better.

- Talk Back to Your Thoughts
When your brain says, “Everything is falling apart!” counter it with, “Really? Or is this just a bad moment?” Be kind but firm, like you’re training a puppy. Go band for band with your brain; come for those negative thoughts like they took your money.
- Move Your Body
Exercise is like hitting the reset button on your brain. A walk, dance party, or even just stretching can help calm that storm of anxiety.
- Write It Out
Sometimes, anxiety just wants to be heard. Grab a journal and pour your thoughts onto the page. It’s a beautiful outlet and doesn’t cost you.
- Seek Help (Because You’re Worth It)
If anxiety feels too big to handle alone, talk to a therapist. They’re like emotional tour guides who can help you navigate the tricky terrain of your mind because truth be told, it’s not always easy to handle it yourself and you would require a little extra help. Reach out to a qualified mental health professional and get help.
You’re Not Alone in This!
Anxiety might be an unwelcome guest, but it’s not a permanent resident!
With the right tools, support, and mindset, you can learn to manage anxiety and live a more fulfilling life.
Remember, you’re not alone in this struggle. You have people who care about you, support you, and believe in you. Keep pushing forward, and know that better days are ahead.