3 signs your anxiety is getting out of control

Anxiety is a natural response of the body, and at moderate levels it helps cope with challenges. However, when it becomes constant, intense and without a clear reason, it begins to compromise mental and physical health. Recognizing the first signs is essential to avoid more serious attacks.

Below are the three main signs that anxiety is getting out of control.

1. Your sleep stops working – and it happens night after night

Difficulty falling asleep, waking up repeatedly during the night, or waking up feeling unrest may indicate that anxiety is active even when you are trying to relax. The body remains on alert, releasing hormones that prevent deep rest. Over time, insomnia worsens irritability, reduces concentration, and further increases the anxiety cycle.

2. Racing thoughts that you can’t “turn off”

The mind does not stop, even when there is no real problem to solve. This continuous stream of thoughts – often catastrophic, repetitive or exaggerated – is one of the first signs of anxiety dysregulation. The person has difficulty concentrating on simple tasks, makes impulsive decisions or, on the contrary, avoids acting for fear of making a mistake.

3. Physical symptoms that appear “out of nowhere”

Tachycardia, chest tightness, tremors, shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, and feelings of fainting are among the most common manifestations of uncontrollable anxiety. Even without physical effort, the body reacts as if confronted with real danger. Many patients confuse these symptoms with heart or respiratory illnesses, which further increases panic.

How much to ask for help?

If symptoms appear frequently, disrupt routine or cause fear of new attacks, it is important to seek psychological or psychiatric care. Therapy, breathing techniques, regular physical activity, and in some cases medication can help restore balance.