7 Anxiety Triggers Most Commonly Reported

Everybody's experience with anxiety is as unique as the person, but what are the 15 anxiety triggers most commonly reported?  You may be surprised to learn...

Everybody's experience with anxiety is as unique as the person, but what are the 15 anxiety triggers most commonly reported?  You may be surprised to learn that there are many factors that come into play when it comes to anxiety-related triggers and how they impact people the most. Here, we will examine the triggers and how people may readily identify them before their anxiety worsens.

1.  Consuming Too Much Caffeine

Drinking excessive amounts of caffeine can wreak havoc on a person's stress and anxiety levels. The reason that this happens is that caffeine increases the levels of epinephrine in the body. This is significant because epinephrine controls the "flight or fight" response in the body, which can significantly impact a person's stress levels.

2.  Being in a Crowd

Many people are uneasy in large gatherings of people. For some, the experience can be incredibly stressful and can make them feel anxious. People who experience anxiety related to crowds may feel as if everybody is looking at them or talking about them.

3.  Financial Hardship

Financial difficulties can make people feel like their safety and security are threatened. While most people worry about finances at some point in their life, for others, it becomes an excessive worry. If you find yourself losing sleep or unable to perform your regular activities, then this may mean that your financial situation is causing anxiety.

4.  Medical Diagnosis

Medical diagnosis may leave people feeling out of control of their bodies. For some people, it can be overwhelming deciding what to do as far as treatment options, or in severe cases, know how to plan for their decline in the coming months. It is not uncommon for people to experience anxiety due to financial and emotional impacts that certain diagnosis can have on the patient as well as their families.

5.  New Parent

First-time parents are sometimes overwhelmed by the many changes that occur at once. Some people may struggle with the responsibility and financial implications of raising a child. For women, anxiety may be triggered by hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy as well.

6.  Test Taking

Tests can certainly impact a person's stress level. Any test may cause people to worry about the outcome or what it could mean for their future. Timed tests can also add another layer of anxiety that may be difficult for individuals to overcome in the days or weeks leading up to the test.

7.  Abuse

Physical or emotional abuse can be a trigger for anxiety. Some people may be triggered based on past experiences, witnessing another person's abuse, or the fear of abuse. Things such as yelling, slamming doors, or throwing objects could cause someone to feel an enormous amount of anxiety.

Overcoming Anxious Triggers

Some triggers can be avoided altogether, but some may occur as you move naturally through your life. To better understand your triggers or what you should do about them, it's best to speak to a licensed therapist to learn your best strategy moving forward.

Author

Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions

Questions about Narcissistic Personality

How can I deal with a cheating narcissist?

Dealing with a cheating narcissist can be challenging due to their manipulation tactics and lack of remorse. It's recommended to seek support from a mental health professional who can provide strategies and tools for managing the relationship and your emotions. They can also help you decide whether it's in your best interest to stay in the relationship or leave.

How can I tell if I'm dating a narcissist?

If you're dating someone who is always seeking attention and approval, is extremely charming and successful or has a deep need for admiration, they may be a narcissist. However, the best way to know for sure is to consult with a mental health professional.

What are some key narcissistic traits that might lead to cheating?

Narcissistic traits that may lead to cheating include an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy for others, a need for constant admiration, and poor impulse control. These individuals may feel entitled to pursue other relationships without considering the feelings of their current partner.

What are some common narcissistic traits?

Common narcissistic traits include self-importance grandiosity, self-indulgences that they imagine unlimited success and a belief that they are "special" and unique. They often require excessive admiration and have a sense of entitlement. These traits can be particularly damaging in sibling relationships.

How prevalent is narcissism in women?

How does narcissism differ in men and women?

While both male and female narcissists exhibit similar traits like a sense of entitlement, lack of empathy and need for admiration, there can be differences. Female narcissists, for instance, might use their relationships with other women to bolster their self-esteem or manipulate for personal gain. Male narcissists, on the other hand, may be more prone to showcase their narcissism through their professional achievements or financial success.

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