Do I Have Anxiety? Signs, Symptoms, and When to Get Help in Chicago
“Why can’t I just relax?”
Maybe you’ve asked yourself that more times than you can count. You lie awake at night with your mind racing. You feel tense all day, like you’re waiting for the next shoe to drop. You can’t stop worrying—about work, your family, your future. If this feels familiar, you might be wondering, “Do I have anxiety?”
You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way. Anxiety is something millions of people struggle with—even if they don’t always talk about it. It can show up quietly or hit like a wave, and either way, it’s exhausting.
The good news? Anxiety is treatable, and you don’t have to manage it all by yourself. If you’ve been searching for an anxiety therapist in Chicago or Illinois, know that support is closer than you think.
Why anxiety is on the rise
Life is stressful. Between work, family, finances, and the constant noise of social media, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The pandemic also left many people feeling more isolated, uncertain, and burned out. When constant stress starts to feel like your new normal, anxiety can creep in and take over.
And for many people—especially those who are Black, Brown, LGBTQIA+, first-generation, or part of other marginalized communities—there’s often even more weight to carry. Cultural expectations, pressure to be “the strong one,” or unspoken family roles can quietly feed anxiety, even when you’re doing your best to keep it together. These layers matter. And your healing deserves to make space for them.
Signs you might have an anxiety disorder
Emotional and mental signs
Constant worry that feels out of your control
Irritability, restlessness, or feeling on edge
Racing thoughts that won’t stop, especially at night
Physical signs
Fast heartbeat, sweating, or trembling
Headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension
Trouble sleeping or feeling exhausted all the time
Anxiety can look different for everyone. For some, it’s panic attacks that feel like a heart attack. For others, it’s constant, quiet worry that never lets up. You might even feel it in your body before you realize you’re anxious—tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, or an upset stomach.
Is it just stress—or is it anxiety?
Stress is a normal part of life. But anxiety sticks around, even when there’s no clear reason. If you’ve been feeling this way for months, and it’s getting in the way of work, relationships, or daily life, it might be an anxiety disorder.
What you can do right now
Simple things you can try today
Practice deep breathing (or even humming) for a few minutes when you feel anxious.
Take a short walk outside to reset your mind and body.
Write down your worries (or do a brain dump) to get them out of your head.
Try a quick screening
The GAD‑7 questionnaire is a simple tool that asks about anxiety symptoms over the last two weeks. It can help you decide whether to seek professional support.
Reach out for help
Talking to a therapist or healthcare provider is the best next step. Anxiety is one of the most treatable mental health concerns—and you don’t have to manage it alone.
Evidence‑based treatments
Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective options.
Lifestyle shifts: Regular exercise, better sleep, and mindfulness practices can help calm your nervous system.
Medication: Sometimes, medication is helpful—especially when anxiety feels overwhelming.
Online therapy for anxiety in Illinois
At Mindful Healing Counseling, we provide online therapy for anxiety in Chicago and across Illinois. Our therapists create a safe, supportive space where you can learn tools to quiet your mind, manage stress, and feel more at peace.
👉 Learn more about anxiety therapy in Illinois and find out how we can support you.
FAQs about anxiety
How do I know if I need help?
If anxiety is interfering with your daily life—work, school, relationships, or sleep—it’s a sign to reach out.
Will therapy really help?
Yes! Anxiety disorders are highly treatable. Therapy provides tools to manage anxious thoughts and regain a sense of control.
What if I can’t afford therapy?
Many practices offer sliding-scale fees, and insurance may cover part or all of the cost.
Living with anxiety doesn’t have to be your forever
It’s easy to think, “This is just how I am.” But anxiety is treatable—and you deserve to feel at ease in your own life. With the right support, things can get better.
You don’t have to do this alone
If anxiety has been running the show, it might be time to reach out for help. Working with an anxiety therapist in Chicago or Illinois can help you find tools that actually work for your life—and give you the space to finally breathe again.
