Uncertainty is a normal part of life, but today it feels more prevalent than ever. In therapy, people are discussing their fears fueled by more common tragedies and circumstances. People are worried about whether they’ll still have a job next month, their retirement savings will hold up, or if political divides will spark more social unrest. There’s an undercurrent of fear that things could get worse or holding their breath that something bad is about to happen.
How anxiety may be showing up in your life
Doomscrolling and avoidance.
Staying informed is important but uncontrolled scrolling will heighten anxiety and create panic. It can also create a false sense of danger.
Sleep challenges and constant fatigue.
Many clients discuss feeling extremely tired or fatigue throughout the day but unable to get sleep at night. Bedtime often serves as a perfect time for the mind to roam with worries when all electronics are turned off and the house goes quiet. One of anxiety’s most consistent companions is poor sleep.
Irritability.
While under increased stress, our tolerance for everyday frustrations declines drastically. Often people become shorter or blunter with others, which creates isolation and friction.
Increased relationship instability.
Anxiety can inadvertently cause people to feel and think they are alone or misunderstood. Healthy relationships serve as supportive factors for all of us. When anxious people can tend to cling to others or display frequent outbursts, shutting down emotionally, or needing more alone time from others.
We are all here living through these times together.
I like to think of each and every one of us as earth mates, experiencing our special moments in history together. Times of discord and crises are creating a perfect storm for increased anxiety.
However anxiety, while uncomfortable, is not always bad. It tells us that something matters, something feels threatened, and we care. Use your anxiety as a thermostat to gauge how you feel about current situations.
Instead of numbing or dismissing these feelings, I encourage my clients to not judge themselves about them. What is often fueling anxiety is a deeper need for security, safety and familiarity. These are human needs. Two things can coexist together and in uncertain times, these needs can still be met.
If you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, reaching out to a mental health professional can be a good next step. You don’t have to face these times of uncertainty alone.
We are here for you! Pine Rest provides compassionate, world-class treatment for anxiety at all care levels and for all ages.
