3 WAYS TO IDENTIFY SITUATIONAL ANXIETY

It’s completely normal to feel an increase in anxious feelings during this time of uncertainty, loss, and crisis. So many times in the Black community we’re over-pathologized and incorrectly diagnosed. This is a PSA that with whatever you’re feeling now, you will be okay. There is nothing missing, nothing broken. Situations bring about different feelings and situational anxiety can be one of them. Here are 3 ways you can identify if you have situational anxiety.

Your anxiety is not too generalized and pervasive in every area of your life. You experience anxious feelings as a result of something specific, such as an upcoming event or unforeseen circumstances.

Ex: I’m feeling anxious because my job is going through layoffs.

Your feelings may feel really BIG and that is valid. However, with this type of anxiety, you wouldn’t be having catastrophic level thoughts with difficulty reasoning.

Ex: My anxiety feels intense, probably a 7, which is unusual. I recognize my anxiety is higher than normal because my job is going through layoffs.

You don’t remain anxious at your baseline. You’re able to move through your feelings when the trigger passes. You don’t continue to ruminate on your thoughts or experience worry that’s generalized to many areas of your life.

Ex: Your company stabilizes and your feelings about job security return.

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