5 Questions to Ask When You’re Feeling Anxious

Anxiety can sneak in quietly - a tight chest, racing thoughts, or that uneasy feeling that something’s not quite right. Sometimes it hits all at once; other times, it lingers in the background, making even simple things feel heavy.

It’s easy to think of anxiety as something to get rid of, but in truth, anxiety is often trying to help us. It’s our body’s alarm system, warning us when we might be in danger, under pressure, or stepping into the unknown. The problem is that this alarm sometimes gets stuck in the “on” position, even when we’re safe.

When anxiety shows up, try slowing things down and asking yourself a few gentle questions. These questions can help you move from reactivity to reflection - from fear to awareness.

1. What’s happening in my body right now?

Start with awareness. Notice where anxiety lives in your body, your chest, your stomach, your shoulders? Just naming what you feel (“My heart is racing,” or “I feel tightness in my throat”) can help bring your attention back to the present moment.

2. What might this feeling be trying to warn me about or prepare me for?

Anxiety is often rooted in protection. Maybe it’s warning you about a possible loss, rejection, or change. Sometimes, understanding its purpose helps soften its intensity - even if you don’t agree with its message.

3. What do I know to be true, and what might be fear talking?

Anxiety loves to tell stories - often worst-case scenarios that feel real in the moment. Ask yourself: What are the facts? What evidence supports or challenges this thought? Separating fact from fear helps you regain perspective.

4. What can I actually influence or change in this moment?

So much of our anxiety lives in the “what ifs.” Refocusing on what’s within your control - and letting go of what isn’t - helps ground you in the present.

5. What small step could help me move forward or find calm?

When everything feels too big, choose one small next step: take a walk, step outside, text a friend, or write your thoughts down. Anxiety shrinks when we take gentle, concrete action.

You Don’t Have to Manage Anxiety Alone

It takes courage to face your thoughts and emotions - especially when they feel unpredictable or overwhelming. Counselling can help you understand where anxiety comes from, how to work with it (not against it), and how to feel safe in your body and your relationships again.

At Lakeside Clinical Counselling, we have a team of compassionate therapists who can help you navigate anxiety, stress, and life’s many transitions.