What Does It Feel Like to Not Have Anxiety?

Anxiety is a complex and multifaceted condition that can manifest in various ways, affecting not only one's thoughts and emotions but also their behaviors and physical well-being.

As a therapist, I've had the privilege of working closely with individuals who struggle with anxiety, witnessing firsthand the profound impact it can have on their day-to-day lives. Something people who experience anxiety often wonder about is what it feels like to NOT have anxiety.

From making decisions to handling emotions, here’s what it's like to live with anxiety and how it differs for those without it. Below are five common situations in which someone with anxiety would struggle and how someone without anxiety might feel or act differently.

1. Decision-Making

Anxiety: For someone with anxiety, making decisions, no matter how trivial, can feel like navigating a minefield. The fear of making the wrong choice and the subsequent consequences can lead to decision paralysis.

Without Anxiety: Conversely, someone without anxiety can easily approach decision-making. They can weigh the options without the cloud of catastrophic thinking looming over them, ultimately making choices with confidence.

Example Scenario: Joining a new gym

Jane just moved to a new neighborhood and wants to join the local gym. There are two within walking distance, and a bit further that costs $20 less per month. Saving money is important to her, but the closer gym has better classes. Then again, the third gym is nicer. Jane is overwhelmed by which one to choose so she doesn’t make a choice.

Joyce is also new to the neighborhood and wants to join a local gym. She checks out the same three options but has no trouble choosing the gym for her - she can always join a different one if it doesn’t work out.

2. Social Interactions

Anxiety: Social interactions can be daunting for individuals with anxiety. The fear of judgment, embarrassment, or saying the wrong thing can lead to avoidance or excessive worry about social encounters.

Without Anxiety: Those without anxiety navigate social situations more effortlessly. They can engage in conversations without the constant fear of scrutiny, allowing for genuine connections and enjoyable interactions.

Example Scenario: Attending a class

Jason walks into his college classroom, heart racing and palms sweaty. His mind is consumed by anxious thoughts. He fears asking questions in front of his classmates and dreads the possibility of being called on, so he sits in the corner and doesn’t participate much. At the end of the semester, he gets a C.

Jake, in the same class, can listen attentively, absorbing the information without the interference of anxious thoughts. He participates in class discussions without hesitation, asking questions and sharing his insights without fear of judgment. At the end of the semester, he gets an A.

3. Workplace Performance

Anxiety: In the workplace, anxiety can hinder productivity and effectiveness. The constant worry about performance, fear of failure, and difficulty concentrating can impede progress.

Without Anxiety: Without the burden of anxiety, individuals can focus on tasks with clarity and concentration. They can approach challenges with a sense of calm, leading to improved performance and job satisfaction.

Example Scenario: Working under a deadline

Anne sits at her desk in the office, a sense of dread washing over her. The looming deadline for a crucial project weighs heavily on her mind. She worries about making mistakes, about not meeting expectations, and about the consequences of failure. Despite her best efforts to push through the anxiety, she feels overwhelmed and defeated, unable to perform at her usual level. Anne ends up missing the deadline and is put on a performance plan to improve.

Deb, in the office across, tackles the tasks on her to-do list with clarity and purpose. The looming deadline for the project doesn't faze her; instead, it motivates her to work efficiently and effectively. Despite the occasional challenge or setback, she maintains a positive outlook, knowing that she can overcome any obstacle that comes her way. Deb meets her deadline with ease.

4. Sleep Quality

Anxiety: Sleep disturbances are common among those with anxiety. Racing thoughts and physical symptoms like muscle tension can make it challenging to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.

Without Anxiety: Without the interference of anxious thoughts, individuals can enjoy restful sleep. They can relax both mentally and physically, waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Example Scenario: Going to bed

Peter lies in bed, his mind racing with anxious thoughts. He replays the day's events, worrying about tomorrow. Despite feeling exhausted, he can't sleep. His body is tense, her heart races, and he feels frustrated every time he looks at the clock - he needs to sleep. Even when he finally dozes off, his sleep is restless and disturbed by anxious dreams.

Paul settles into bed feeling calm and content. He reflects on the positives of the day and welcomes sleep with ease. His mind is at peace, allowing him to drift into a deep, restful sleep. He wakes up refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

5. Emotional Regulation

Anxiety: Emotional volatility is a hallmark of anxiety, with individuals experiencing intense feelings of irritability, restlessness, or fear. Controlling these emotions can feel like an uphill battle.

Without Anxiety: Those without anxiety experience greater emotional stability. They can regulate their emotions more effectively, leading to a more balanced and harmonious inner state.

Example Scenario: Argument with a friend

Sara sits at home, her mind swirling with worry after a disagreement with a friend. She struggles to contain her tears and feels overwhelmed by fear and self-doubt. Every negative thought seems magnified, leaving her feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety. She just wants the argument to be over, and she can’t concentrate on anything else until it feels resolved.

Katie, on the other hand, has a similar disagreement but approaches it calmly. She acknowledges her emotions without letting them consume her, focusing on finding a resolution in due time. Remaining in control, she navigates the situation with clarity and maturity.

How to Not Feel Anxiety - Practical Strategies

If you find yourself relating to the anxious person in the above scenarios, you’re not alone. Here are some practical strategies that people with anxiety can use to better manage it on a day-to-day basis. Click on each technique to learn more.

Techniques to help manage anxiety:

Deep Breathing Exercises
Mindfulness Meditation
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
Grounding Techniques
Establish a Routine

Working with a therapist is another option for managing anxiety - it provides individuals with the necessary tools, support, and guidance to effectively cope with their symptoms. With the help of a therapist, symptoms of anxiety can be greatly reduced.

What it feels like to not have anxiety

• Reduced levels of fear, apprehension, and irritability.
• Greater emotional resilience and the ability to cope with stressors.
• Enhanced emotional regulation, leading to more stable moods.
• Reduced intrusive thoughts and decreased rumination.
• Improved ability to concentrate and focus on tasks.
• Enhanced cognitive flexibility, allowing for more adaptive problem-solving.
• Decreased muscle tension and relief from physical symptoms like headaches or gastrointestinal issues.
• Improved sleep quality and more regular sleep patterns.
• Overall improvement in physical well-being due to reduced stress-related physiological responses.

Dealing with anxiety can be emotionally draining and isolating. Our therapists offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions without judgment. Creating Connections Counseling in Pittsburgh & Wexford, PA provides in-person and virtual therapy for anxiety.

Everyone needs help sometimes. We would be honored to help you.
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If you are in crisis or have thoughts of suicide, call 988 for immediate help.