The Most Common Anxiety Triggers

Woman sitting down with elbows on knees pulled in and hand on forehead

Do you find yourself feeling a sense of impending danger, panic or doom? Do you feel your heart racing in certain situations? Do you often feel nervous, restless or tense? 

That's what anxiety often looks like and can be caused by the most common triggers. 

What are common triggers for anxiety?

  1. Self-Neglect-Not being able to take care of your personal needs can instantly heighten your anxiety and may lead to depression. Examples of self-neglect may include skipping meals, staying up too late, not going the doctor, not showering, etc.

  2. A Messy Home Environment- Although for many a mess is just a mess, those struggling with anxiety often see the mess as more. A messy home environment may compound the feeling of helpless and that things are out of control. 

  3. Conflict- An argument, disagreement, a difference of opinions, any of type of conflict can trigger anxiety. Learning better conflict resolution strategies can help manage anxiety.

  4. Stress- Stress and anxiety are often synonymous for a lot of individuals and stress feels impossible to dismiss in today's world. Stress can be reduced with strategies such as preventative and reactive grounding techniques. 

  5. Caffeine- Caffeine is great in small doses but just one ounce over body's tolerance will increase your anxiety. Being more mindful of the timing and quantities of caffeine can help reduce anxiety. 

Should people with anxiety see a therapist?

It depends on how ready you feel about opening up. Sometimes, we may not feel ready to open up and that can make anxiety worse. If anxiety is getting in the way of daily living, you should consider seeing a therapist.

This is just a shortlist of the most common anxiety triggers, anxiety can be caused by so much more, but the good news is it can be managed with the right guidance -- check out our our anxiety therapy page to learn more about our services.