Is My Anxiety Normal?

At times, we all experience anxiety. It is part of being human. Anxiety is our mind and body’s natural response to uncertainty, stress, or possible danger — and our physiological response is the same whether that danger is actually real - or simply anticipated in our imagination.

Anxiety can show up in our thoughts as worry, in our emotions as nervousness or dread, and in our bodies through tension, a racing heart, restlessness, or difficulty relaxing.

Experiencing anxious thoughts does not automatically mean that you “have anxiety.”

In many situations, anxiety is actually a healthy and protective response.

It helps you stay alert, prepare for challenges, respond to important situations, and keep yourself safe. Normal anxiety is usually temporary and settles down once we realise that the stressful moment has passed.

Sometimes, however, anxiety can begin to feel overwhelming. Rather than coming and going, it may become increasingly difficult to control, or begin interfering with everyday life, relationships, sleep, work, or our sense of wellbeing.

When this happens, your nervous system may have become dysregulated, and you can find yourself caught in a cycle of anxiety — becoming anxious about feeling anxious.

As someone who has experienced anxiety in the past, and who is still prone to anxiety if I don’t take care of my own personal wellbeing, I can honestly understand how impacting it can be. But I also know it can be managed and overcome.

If this resonates with you, please know that you do not have to navigate it alone.

With compassionate support, it is possible to better understand what is happening, gently regulate the nervous system, and begin breaking free from the anxiety cycle.

At Purposeful Wellbeing I offer a warm, personalised, and compassionate space where you can feel truly seen, heard, and supported. If you would like help navigating anxiety, you can reach out here today.

I would be honoured to support you.

© Joanne Edwards