Understanding Anxiety: Signs, Treatments, and Coping Methods
What Does Anxiety Feel Like?
Anxiety can look and feel different for everyone, but it often shows up as a mix of constant worry, racing thoughts, restlessness, or physical tension. You might notice your heart beating faster, your chest feeling tight, or your mind jumping from one “what if” to another.
Occasional anxiety is normal — it’s part of being human. But when worry or fear begins to interfere with your daily life, relationships, or ability to rest, it may be time to seek additional support.
Common Signs of Anxiety
Persistent worry or fear that feels difficult to control
Racing thoughts or overthinking
Difficulty relaxing or falling asleep
Restlessness or irritability
Tight muscles, rapid heartbeat, or stomach discomfort
Avoiding situations that trigger fear or worry
If these signs sound familiar, you’re not alone. Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns — and it’s also one of the most treatable.
How Anxiety Is Treated
Anxiety responds well to a variety of treatment options. Each person’s experience is unique, so the right approach depends on your needs and comfort level.
Therapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change thought patterns that contribute to worry and stress.
EMDR Therapy can help process past experiences that may fuel anxiety or panic.
Medication:
In some cases, medication prescribed by a healthcare provider can help reduce symptoms and make therapy even more effective.
Combination Approach:
Many people find the best results from combining therapy with medication, along with small lifestyle changes that support emotional balance.
Coping Methods for Anxiety
While professional treatment is often key, there are daily habits and tools that can help you feel calmer and more in control:
Deep Breathing: Slow, steady breathing tells your body that it’s safe to relax.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Staying present helps reduce spiraling thoughts.
Regular Movement: Walking, yoga, or any form of physical activity can release tension and improve mood.
Sleep and Nutrition: Rest and balanced meals help regulate your body’s stress response.
Social Support: Talking with trusted friends, family, or a therapist helps you feel seen and supported.
These small practices may not erase anxiety overnight, but over time they build resilience and create more peaceful moments throughout your day.
There Is Hope! Anxiety Is Treatable
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Healing begins when you reach out for help and start learning tools that bring calm back into your life. With compassion, consistency, and support, relief is absolutely possible.
Online Therapy for Anxiety in Vermont and Utah
At Sugarhouse Therapy, I offer online therapy for adults and children across Vermont and Utah. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR, I help clients understand their anxiety, build coping skills, and find balance again.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to learn how therapy can support your journey toward calm and confidence.