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 communicate effectively with a narcissistic woman?

Communicating with a narcissistic woman can be challenging due to their inflated sense of self-importance and tendency to feel superior. It's important to maintain your personal space and set clear boundaries. Avoid getting drawn into their manipulative tactics or abusive behavior, such as the silent treatment or belittling comments that make you feel inferior. Instead, focus on expressing your thoughts and feelings clearly and assertively.

What is the narcissistic abuse cycle?

It is a pattern of behavior that is often seen in relationships where one person has a narcissistic personality disorder. It typically consists of four phases: idealization, devaluation, discarding, and hoovering.

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.

I feel guilty when a narcissist ignores me. What should I do?

When a narcissist ignores you, it's common to feel guilty. However, remember that this is a common tactic used by narcissists to make you question your worth. Try not to internalize this guilt. Instead, create boundaries and seek support from trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional.

Is narcissism a personality disorder or a mental disorder?

Narcissism is considered a type of personality disorder known as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). However, it is also part of the broader category of mental disorders. It's crucial for a mental health professional to diagnose these conditions, as they require specialized knowledge and experience with personality disorders.

How does a narcissistic sibling impact family relationships?

A narcissistic sibling can destroy family relationships. Their need for narcissistic supply often leads them to create divisive family dynamics and foster sibling rivalry. This can result in other siblings feeling neglected or abused.

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