03/12/2025
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural human response that activates when the brain senses a threat, whether real or imagined. It triggers the body’s “fight or flight” system, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline that increase alertness and tension. While occasional anxiety is normal, persistent or overwhelming anxiety can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being.
Many people experience physical symptoms such as a racing heart, tight chest, dizziness, sweating, or stomach discomfort. Mentally, anxiety can cause constant worry, intrusive thoughts, or difficulty concentrating. It often appears without a clear trigger, making the person feel on edge for no obvious reason. Anxiety can also create a cycle where worrying leads to more worry, making the symptoms feel harder to control. Environmental factors, genetics, trauma, and long-term stress can all contribute to its development.
Importantly, anxiety is not a sign of weakness but a common and treatable condition that many people experience. Understanding how it works is the first step toward managing it effectively through support, lifestyle changes, or professional guidance.