Recognizing Signs of Anxiety In Loved Ones

Concerned about changes in a family member or friend’s behavior? Their symptoms could be related to an underlying anxiety disorder. Here’s a look at the key indicators of anxiety and what you can do to support your loved one.

Have you noticed a friend or family member has been acting a little off and wondered if there's more beneath the surface than just normal stress?

It's not always easy to tell, but understanding the signs of anxiety can be the first step in helping your loved one get the support they need.

Anxiety is a normal response to stress or danger. It's characterized by worried thoughts, tense or on edge, and even physical changes, like tightness in the chest or increased blood pressure.

When these feelings become persistent or especially strong compared to the stimulus, they could signal an anxiety disorder. However, it can be challenging to know the difference between normal anxious feelings and an anxiety disorder.

This is especially true when you consider that "anxiety" is an umbrella term for a number of disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias and agoraphobia, separation anxiety, and more.

The board-certified mental health providers at Magnolia Medical Group in Denver and Wheat Ridge, Colorado, are here to help. Our team offers expert diagnosis and a range of treatment options for those struggling with an anxiety disorder.

Take a moment to learn more about the signs of anxiety in loved ones and what can help them manage their symptoms.

1. Your loved one worries all the time

One of the most common signs of an anxiety disorder is excessive worrying that is out of proportion to the event causing it.

This type of worry is persistent and intrusive, making it difficult for the person to concentrate or relax. They might start and end each day feeling like something (or everything) is wrong.

If you notice that your loved one constantly expects disaster, especially about everyday things, this could be a sign of anxiety.

2. Your loved one struggles with sleep

Another telltale sign of anxiety is changes in sleep patterns. These could include trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling restless and unwell-rested.

And for some people, anxiety can make them want to sleep too much. If you observe that your loved one is often tired, complains about poor sleep regularly, or seems to be napping all the time, it could be a sign of an underlying anxiety disorder.

3. Your loved one complains about physical symptoms

Anxiety can be about more than just the mind—it can show up as physical symptoms, too. Some common physical signs include:

Trembling, shaking, or twitching
Increased muscle tension
Headaches or lightheadedness
Unexplainable aches and pains
Frequent stomachaches or digestive issues
Rapid breathing or heart rate

Watching for these physical clues can help you identify anxiety, especially in loved ones who might be less able to put into words how they’re feeling mentally or emotionally.

4. Your loved one has been avoiding things

People with anxiety disorders can avoid situations or activities they once enjoyed, especially when these places or events are somehow linked to their anxieties. If your loved one is suddenly making excuses to skip events or is shying away from things that were once part of their normal routine, it could be caused by underlying anxiety.

5. You’ve noticed your loved one is increasingly irritable

Irritability is an often-overlooked sign of anxiety. People with anxiety may exhibit unusual impatience, quick to anger, or frustration—especially in situations that don’t seem to warrant such a response.

This irritability isn't just about your loved one being in a bad mood occasionally, which is normal. It's about a consistent change in behavior that seems to be a change from their normal personality.

Supporting your loved one

Suppose you recognize any of these signs in someone close to you. In that case, the most supportive thing to do is encourage them to seek help from a behavioral health specialist, like the providers at Magnolia Medical Group.

Professional help can make a significant difference. We offer personalized anxiety treatments that may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Each plan is custom tailored to meet the patient's unique needs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, the providers at Magnolia Medical Group are here to help. Schedule a consultation online or over the phone to learn more about our services and how we can assist you or your loved one manage anxiety.