Generalised Anxiety

Feeling anxious?

Anxiety—

It’s something every human being experiences at some point in their life. Whether it’s preparing for an important presentation, facing unexpected situations, or navigating through life’s inevitable stresses, anxiety is a natural response to the world around us. But what is anxiety, really? And is it always a bad thing?

Anxiety often emerges when we’re confronted with stressors or perceived threats, as well as when we encounter unforeseen circumstances. In these moments, our bodies and minds become more alert to our surroundings, helping us stay sharp, organized, and prepared. In fact, anxiety can be a helpful force. As Sigmund Freud (1936) noted, anxiety serves as an internal alarm system, alerting us to potential danger. For example, feeling anxious about an exam can push us to study harder and avoid careless mistakes. It’s a signal that keeps us proactive and vigilant, a tool for survival.

For most of us, feelings of anxiety are temporary. They tend to fade once the triggering event or situation has passed, or when we develop strategies to cope with those emotions. In this sense, anxiety plays an important and sometimes even beneficial role in our lives—it keeps us engaged, reactive, and ready to tackle challenges.

However, not all anxiety is helpful. When feelings of anxiety become overwhelming and persist over long periods, they can take a toll on our mental well-being. Severe or chronic anxiety can evolve into mental distress, affecting our ability to function day to day. In extreme cases, this distress can become so debilitating that it’s classified as a mental health disorder, requiring professional support and intervention.

While anxiety is often associated with uncomfortable or unpleasant feelings, it’s a deeply human experience with both positive and negative impacts. Understanding and managing anxiety effectively can help us harness its constructive potential while addressing its harmful effects.

So, the next time anxiety creeps in, remember—it's not your enemy. It’s a part of the human experience, offering lessons, challenges, and, at times, an opportunity to grow. But if it ever feels like too much, know that help is out there, and you don’t have to face it alone.

More Reading:

Ways of Working with Anxiety

Understanding the symtoms of anxiety

Dr Mel Wong

Founder, Counsellor, Gumboot Counsellor, Registered Teacher, and Researcher