What anxiety can look like
Anxiety does not always feel like panic. For many adults it shows up quietly and constantly. You might notice:
- Worry that jumps from one topic to the next and is hard to stop
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Muscle tension, headaches, stomach upset, or a racing heart
- Irritability, restlessness, or feeling on edge
- Putting things off, or avoiding people and places
- Needing reassurance, or replaying conversations afterward
Anxiety and depression often travel together
Long periods of worry are exhausting, and many people find their mood drops as a result. Low mood, in turn, can make worries feel larger. Therapy can address both. See depression therapy for more about low mood.
How therapy can help
In therapy with Dr. Lehmann you look at both sides of anxiety: what is happening now and where the pattern came from. That usually means practical tools for calming the body and managing worry day to day, and also the insight work: what the anxiety is protecting you from, what it learned from your history, and what you need instead.
Anxiety can have medical contributors, such as thyroid problems, some medications, or caffeine and sleep. If it has not been done, it can be worth checking in with your physician too. Medication is sometimes helpful and can be discussed with your doctor or a psychiatrist alongside therapy.
Learn more
Anxiety and Depression Resource Center: guides on anxiety vs. everyday stress: how can you tell the difference; depression vs. a difficult season: when should you seek support, and related questions.
Trauma Recovery and Emotional Safety Library: guides on what does trauma-informed therapy mean; how trauma can affect trust and relationships, and related questions.
Common questions
How do I know if my anxiety is 'bad enough' for therapy?
There is no threshold. If worry is affecting your sleep, relationships, work, or the choices you make, that is reason enough to talk to someone.
Does Dr. Lehmann prescribe medication?
No. Psychologists in Michigan do not prescribe. If medication might help, Dr. Lehmann can talk with you about working with your physician or a psychiatrist.
I get panic attacks. Is this the right page?
Yes, panic is one form of anxiety. If you ever have chest pain or trouble breathing and are not sure of the cause, get medical care first.