How Can Anxiety Show Up in Someone?

What Are the Common Signs That Someone Has Anxiety?

Anxiety doesn’t always show up as panic attacks. In fact, many people live with high-functioning anxiety that looks like:

• Overthinking and constant worry

• Avoiding people, situations, or responsibilities

• Trouble sleeping or staying asleep

• Physical symptoms like stomachaches, tight chest, or fatigue

• Perfectionism or needing to control everything

• Irritability or emotional reactivity

Some people don’t even realize they’re anxious—they just feel constantly overwhelmed or “on edge.”

Can Anxiety Affect the Body?

Yes, anxiety shows up in the body. Common physical symptoms of anxiety include:

• Headaches or tension in the neck and shoulders

• Stomach issues like nausea, IBS, or cramping

• Rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing

• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded

• Muscle tension or jaw clenching

When the nervous system is in a chronic state of alert, the body responds as if there’s a threat—even when there isn’t one.

What Are Some Less Obvious Ways Anxiety Shows Up?

Anxiety is a shape-shifter. It can look like:

• Being “busy” all the time to avoid stillness

• Cancelling plans last minute due to social anxiety

• Needing constant reassurance in relationships

• Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected

• Difficulty focusing or making decisions

• Saying “yes” to everything to avoid disappointing others

Many people don’t label these behaviors as anxiety—but they are.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have Anxiety?

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you love, you’re not alone—and it’s not “just in your head.” At Northern California Family Counseling & Wellness Center, our therapists specialize in helping individuals understand anxiety, manage symptoms, and heal the root causes. We offer both in-person and virtual therapy, intensives, and retreats designed with compassion and connection in mind.

Need Help With Anxiety?

We can help you find calm in the chaos.
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