What Does Anxiety Actually Feel Like? (And What You Can Do About It)
Most people feel anxious from time to time. But what if those feelings start to take over? Anxiety can be sneaky—showing up as constant overthinking, physical symptoms, or a general sense that something isn’t right. It doesn’t always look like panic attacks or obvious fear.
At The Online Psychologists, we speak to people every day who are surprised to learn their symptoms are actually anxiety-related. Here’s what anxiety can look like, and how online CBT and therapy can help.
The Hidden Faces of Anxiety
Anxiety doesn’t always announce itself clearly. It can feel like:
A racing mind you can’t switch off
Constant worry about things that might go wrong
Tension in your shoulders or chest
Trouble sleeping or feeling constantly tired
A sense of dread you can’t explain
Feeling irritable, restless or unable to concentrate
Avoiding certain situations for fear of what might happen
Difficulty making decisions, even small ones
These symptoms often build slowly. You might find ways to cope—overworking, people-pleasing, avoiding social events—without recognising anxiety as the cause. Left untreated, it can start to affect relationships, work, and self-esteem.
Why Naming It Helps
Many people delay seeking help because they think they’re “just stressed” or “being dramatic.” But understanding what’s really going on is powerful. Once you recognise anxiety for what it is, you can begin to manage it.
Naming anxiety doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken. It means you’re paying attention. And it opens the door to getting support that actually works.
How Online CBT Can Help
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is a practical, evidence-based way to understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected. Online CBT helps you:
Identify negative thinking patterns
Learn tools to reduce overthinking and worry
Build healthier coping strategies
Challenge fear-based beliefs with evidence
Develop new habits that support long-term wellbeing
CBT is goal-focused, present-oriented, and tailored to your pace. And online sessions mean you can do it from your own space.
Getting Started
If you think anxiety might be affecting your life, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our online therapy sessions are confidential, flexible, and focused on helping you feel more like yourself again.
Whether you’re dealing with general anxiety, panic, health anxiety or constant overthinking, we’re here to support you.
Reach out today to book a free consultation with a psychologist who understands.
