When Does Anxiety Warrant Professional Help?

Everyone feels anxious now and then — before a big presentation, during major life changes, or when facing the unknown. But when anxiety becomes constant, overwhelming, or starts to interfere with your daily life, it may be a sign of something more serious.

Nehemiah Zarate-Rourke, DNP, PMHNP-BC, ARNP, at Moving Forward Washington in Everett, Washington, specializes in helping individuals who are experiencing anxiety beyond what’s considered typical.

Here are some signs it may be time to seek professional support for anxiety:

Anxiety becomes constant or hard to manage

It’s normal to feel anxious before a major event or decision, but anxiety that sticks around long after the event has passed could be a sign of something more. If you find yourself worrying most days and can’t seem to calm your thoughts, you may be experiencing generalized anxiety disorder or another form of clinical anxiety.

People with chronic anxiety often report feeling “on edge” for no apparent reason. They may experience physical symptoms like a racing heart, muscle tension, or restlessness, even in non stressful situations. 

When these feelings persist for weeks or months, it signals that professional help could make a meaningful difference.

You avoid situations to prevent anxious feelings

Avoidance is a common coping strategy for people struggling with anxiety. While it may offer temporary relief, it can reinforce fear and limit your ability to live a full and satisfying life. For example, someone with social anxiety might decline invitations, avoid public speaking, or dread everyday tasks like making phone calls. 

Over time, avoidance can shrink your world and increase feelings of isolation. Therapy can help you address the root of these fears in a safe, supportive environment. With professional guidance, you can learn healthier coping strategies that reduce avoidance and build confidence in difficult situations.

Physical symptoms start to affect your health

Anxiety doesn’t just affect your mind — it takes a toll on your body, too. Persistent anxiety can lead to headaches, fatigue, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and even chronic pain. Call the office for an appointment if your body seems to be reacting to stress in ways that impact your daily life.

Daily life feels harder than it should

When anxiety starts interfering with work, school, relationships, or basic tasks like running errands, it’s a sign you might benefit from extra support. You may notice a drop in your performance, increased irritability, or difficulty focusing. Even activities you once enjoyed might begin to feel overwhelming or draining.

Seeking help doesn’t mean your struggles aren’t valid — it means you recognize your worth and want to feel better. Therapy can offer clarity, practical strategies, and a renewed sense of control in your day-to-day life.

You’re using unhealthy coping strategies

Some people attempt to manage anxiety by turning to alcohol, overeating, excessive screen time, or other unhealthy behaviors. While these habits may numb anxious feelings in the short term, they often lead to more distress and prevent long-term healing.

Professional help can support you in identifying these patterns and developing healthier alternatives that genuinely reduce anxiety instead of masking it.

You don’t have to go through it alone

Anxiety can feel isolating, but support is available — and effective. At Moving Forward Washington, we specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety with compassion and evidence-based care. Whether you’re dealing with panic attacks, constant worry, or social fears, you don’t have to manage it on your own.

If your anxiety feels like more than just stress, reach out. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.