We all worry — but anxiety goes deeper
In a country like South Africa, where daily life includes juggling work, family, finances, crime, traffic, and power cuts — stress is normal. But when that stress starts to take over your body, sleep, or mind, it may be something more serious: anxiety.
And here’s the key — anxiety doesn’t always “look” anxious.
What exactly is anxiety?
Anxiety is your body’s natural response to danger or uncertainty. It helps you react quickly in stressful situations.
But when it doesn’t switch off — and you feel constantly tense, nervous, or overwhelmed — that’s when it becomes a mental health condition, not just a feeling.
5 common signs of anxiety to look out for
🧠 1. Racing thoughts or overthinking everything
Your brain won’t switch off. You replay conversations, worry about the future, or imagine worst-case scenarios — even when things seem okay.
💓 2. Physical symptoms (yes, your body feels it too)
- Tight chest
- Racing heart
- Sweaty palms
- Dry mouth
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach problem.
It can feel like something is medically wrong — but it’s actually anxiety.
😴 3. Trouble sleeping
You struggle to fall asleep, wake up often, or wake up feeling tense — even after 8 hours in bed.
Sleep and anxiety have a two-way relationship: anxiety affects sleep, and poor sleep worsens anxiety.
🧍🏽♀️ 4. Avoiding people, places, or situations
You start avoiding things that make you feel nervous — work, social events, driving, answering the phone — even if you used to handle them fine.
😭 5. Feeling out of control
You can’t explain why you’re emotional, irritable, or always on edge. You cry more, snap more, or just feel like you’re “not yourself”.
How to support yourself (or someone else)
🧘♀️ Breathing exercises – Deep breathing calms the nervous system. Try:
Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6.
📔 Journaling – Writing down worries can make them feel smaller and clearer.
🚶 Movement – Gentle exercise like walking helps release built-up tension.
📵 Reduce information overload – Limit news and social media if it increases your stress.
💬 Talk to someone – A friend, loved one, support group — just saying “I’m not okay” is a powerful step.
🧠 If anxiety is affecting daily life — it may be time to seek support from a trained mental health professional. There’s help available.
You’re not weak — your brain is just tired
Anxiety doesn’t make you dramatic. It doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means your nervous system is asking for support.
The sooner you listen, the sooner you can feel better.
