Anxiety. We all have it from time to time.  According to the ADAA, anxiety is the most common mental illness in America.

But when is it time to see a professional therapist to help us cope with our anxiety?

If you believe you have been dealing with anxiety for a while now, then here are some telltale signs that it’s time to seek help.

Your health is suffering – Anxiety and the stress it brings can negatively affect your physical health. If you’re experiencing a string of physical ailments – such as headaches, frequent colds, problems sleeping, and unexpected muscle pain – anxiety may be a root cause. Of course, always consult with your primary care doctor as well.

Your relationships are suffering – If you are having difficulty maintaining relationships – with family, friends, and your significant other – anxiety may be a culprit. High anxiety levels often result in feelings of irritation and unhappiness when interacting with others.

Your emotions are out of control – An anxious person may feel extremely emotional regularly. Feeling emotions is, of course, a healthy thing. If your emotions are more intense than usual and hit you much more frequently, anxiety levels could be a cause.

Struggles at work or school – Difficulty focusing, low energy levels, and a general sense of disinterest are all signs of anxiety at play.

Feeling overwhelmed – If the rigors of your everyday life suddenly feel overwhelming, it may be a sign that your mind’s coping mechanisms are compromised. Anxiety has a way of making the normal feel like the weight of the world.

Lack of joy – If the things that made you happy all your life suddenly feel uninteresting, if you have an ongoing sense of dread, or an ongoing feeling of tension, then anxiety may be a culprit.

If one or more of the above describes what you are going through, please consider speaking with a professional therapist. You are certainly not alone in your struggle and deserve to recapture the peace of mind and joy that escapes you these days.