Understanding Anxiety
By Clinical Mental Health Team
The word anxiety and how people understand it has evolved over the past 10–15 years. It is not uncommon for someone to say that they “have anxiety.” But what comes to mind when you hear that? Because awareness of mental health has increased, many people’s thoughts jump immediately to anxiety as a diagnosis. However, it’s worth pausing to consider the actual definition of anxiety.
The New Oxford American Dictionary defines anxiety as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.
The American Psychological Association describes it as an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure.
Most of us have heard—or said—the phrase, “Don’t worry. It’ll be fine.” But how often does that genuinely help?
Worry often feels uncontrollable. Just like any strong emotion, we cannot always help what we feel. But what IS within our control is what we do with the feeling.
Why Avoidance Doesn’t Work
When anxious, many people instinctively try to distract themselves or push the feeling down. While distraction can be a helpful coping tool, it is most effective after we have identified and communicated what we’re feeling.
Even though our natural reaction is to avoid uncomfortable emotions, stepping toward the fear or worry—exploring it gently—can help diffuse it.
Supporting Children and Adolescents Through Anxiety
When working with children or teens, it’s common for them to feel that their worries are dismissed or unacknowledged. If you notice a child feeling anxious, or they express a worry, try using identification an
What IS within our control is what we do with the worry.
Anxiety can also be more severe and meet the criteria for a diagnosis. If you or a loved one is experiencing ongoing anxiety that interferes with daily life, consider exploring treatment. Many people feel stuck, believing things will never change, but relief is possible—and life can feel more manageable and enjoyable.