Understanding Different Types of Anxiety
"You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you” – Dan Millman
Anxiety isn’t one-size-fits-all — and it doesn’t always look the way you’d expect. It can show up in ways that are subtle or confusing — and sometimes we don’t even realize that what we’re feeling is anxiety. Understanding its different forms is an important first step in learning how to cope with anxiety. Whether you’re experiencing some of these symptoms yourself or trying to support someone who is, it helps to have a clear picture.
Here are some common types of anxiety:
💯 High-Functioning Anxiety (Perfectionism)
You might:
Set extremely high standards for yourself
Feel like you always have to get things right
Struggle to relax or feel like it’s never “enough”
Appear calm and competent on the outside — while feeling overwhelmed inside
What it looks like: You’re the one who “has it all together” — until the pressure becomes too much. This kind of anxiety is often hidden behind success and productivity, but it can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and self-doubt if left unchecked.
🧍♀️ Social Anxiety
You might:
Constantly worry about what others think of you
Fear being judged, embarrassed, or making a mistake in public
Avoid social events or public speaking situations
Replay conversations long after they’ve ended, wondering if you said the wrong thing
What it looks like: This goes beyond shyness — it’s a deep fear of being negatively evaluated or rejected. Even everyday interactions can feel incredibly stressful.
⚠️ Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
You might:
Worry about lots of different things all at once — finances, health, family, work
Feel like your brain just won’t stop spinning
Have trouble sleeping, relaxing, or focusing
What it looks like: This type of anxiety often feels like a constant hum in the background — always there, even when there’s no immediate threat or problem.
🚨 Panic Disorder
You might:
Experience sudden panic attacks that feel like heart attacks
Notice symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or shaking
Fear having another attack, which can increase your overall anxiety
What it looks like: Panic attacks are terrifying — and very real. But with support, they are treatable, and you're not alone in facing them.
🌪️ Health Anxiety (Hypochondria)
You might:
Obsess over your health or fear you have a serious illness
Interpret minor symptoms as something much worse
Frequently visit doctors or search online for medical answers
What it looks like: Health anxiety can be deeply distressing and often stems from a need for certainty and safety. It can be especially intense if you’ve had past trauma or difficult medical experiences.
📦 Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
You might:
Have intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that cause anxiety
Feel compelled to perform certain rituals or behaviors (compulsions) to relieve that anxiety
Know your fears or behaviors don’t fully make sense, but feel powerless to stop
What it looks like: OCD is not about being “neat” or “organized.” It’s a serious condition that can take up a lot of mental and emotional energy — and it often goes misunderstood.
🧠 PTSD & Trauma-Related Anxiety
You might:
Have flashbacks, nightmares, or intense emotional reactions to reminders of trauma
Feel on edge or hyper-vigilant, even in safe situations
Avoid places, people, or conversations that remind you of the event
What it looks like: Trauma can rewire how your brain processes danger and safety. But healing is possible — and you don’t have to go through it alone.
You don’t need to fit perfectly into one category or have an official diagnosis to seek help.
If anxiety is affecting your peace of mind, your relationships, or your ability to enjoy life — that’s reason enough to reach out. Therapy can help you understand your anxiety, learn tools to manage it, and begin to feel more grounded and in control.
When you are ready, let’s work together!
