© Shutterstock

© Shutterstock

Thinking there's something physically wrong with you -

Anxiety can often stem from a worry that there is something wrong with your body. Some physical symptoms can be a sign of an anxiety disorder, which can interfere with daily functioning.

© Shutterstock

Thinking there's something physically wrong with you -

Symptoms, such as increased heart rate, hyperventilation, sweating, and weakness, can first make you feel anxious about your own health. This then leads to a cycle of anxiety.

© Shutterstock

Worries about your loved ones -

Sometimes anxiety comes from fear about what can happen to loved ones. Not only might people worry about something happening to their children, close family members, or friends, but also how they'll cope if something bad actually does happen.

© Shutterstock

Worries about your loved ones -

This particularly affects caregivers. They're often faced with many challenges in providing care for someone else, while juggling their own needs.

© Shutterstock

How much or little money you might have -

One of the reasons why money might be triggering is because it's associated with our survival. When we feel that resource is scarce, it can actually make people feel like they're in danger.

© Shutterstock

How much or little money you might have -

Some other common financial anxieties include concerns about savings, job security, salary, debt, and wealth comparison.

© Shutterstock

Stimulants -

Stimulants, including caffeine, can make anxiety worse. Some studies show that consuming about two cups of coffee can increase the likelihood of anxiety and panic attacks in people sensitive to them.

© Shutterstock

Stimulants -

Other stimulants, such as cannabis to relax, can also trigger anxiety. Many people attempt to self-medicate when they become anxious, but this can actually backfire with stimulants.

© Shutterstock

Not getting enough sleep -

Not getting enough of that recommended seven hours of sleep is another factor that can worsen anxiety. Research has even shown that regardless of if someone has an anxiety disorder or not, anxiety levels go up after sleep deprivation.

© Shutterstock

Not getting enough sleep -

Indeed, sleep deprivation can cause anxiety, and in turn anxiety can cause sleeping problems, beginning a vicious cycle.

© Shutterstock

Taking certain medications -

Some medications themselves are stimulants and so therefore can trigger anxiety, including amphetamines and methylphenidate.

© Shutterstock

Taking certain medications -

Even some antidepressants, and some anti-asthma medications, can be stimulating for some people. Make sure to talk to a medical professional if this affects you.

© Shutterstock

Not having control of a situation -

A lot of people have this anxiety trigger, especially during major world events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

© Shutterstock

Not having control of a situation -

It's difficult to handle the loss of control, and it's even more difficult to deal with it. This can be very anxiety-provoking.

© Shutterstock

Concerns over large-scale disasters -

Both natural disasters and climate change can be anxiety triggers. And even if people are more used to them, it can still cause a lot of stress and anxiety.

© Shutterstock

Concerns over large-scale disasters -

Anxieties about these things could stem from uncertainties about the future, and frustration over how world leaders are dealing with them.

© Shutterstock

Perfectionism -

Perfectionism can be a major trigger of anxiety. But, for many, it’s an unexpected trigger, and they might not even see themselves as perfectionists.

© Shutterstock

Perfectionism -

The first step to overcoming perfectionism is to become aware of your perfectionist thoughts and tendencies. Also, get rid of the word "should." If you find yourself focusing on how things "should" be, try reframing the issue.

© Shutterstock

Having an argument that can affect a relationship -

Sometimes arguments or disagreements are inevitable. But this can cause feelings of sadness and depression, as well as anxiety.

© Shutterstock

Having an argument that can affect a relationship -

Arguments with someone you're close with can also lead to anxieties about the future consequences in close relationships.

© Shutterstock

Information overload -

In today's society, social media can also trigger anxiety. This is especially true if you spend an hour or more per day on it. Also, using four or more social media platforms can be all the more triggering.

© Shutterstock

Information overload -

While you don't have to go cold turkey, you should limit the time you engage with it so that you're not constantly checking in.

© Shutterstock

Separating from a loved one -

Separation from a caregiver is a common trigger of anxiety for children and adolescents, but it's also a trigger for adults.

© Shutterstock

Separating from a loved one -

People who are triggered by this might have nightmares about the separation. They might also experience physical symptoms when the separation happens or is anticipated.

© Shutterstock

Having a diet heavy in processed carbs -

Even your diet can impact your mental health. Research has shown that eating a lot of processed carbohydrates can increase the risk of anxiety.

© Shutterstock

Having a diet heavy in processed carbs -

This might be because of the repeated and fast changes in blood glucose levels. Recurrent low blood sugar is also associated with mood disorders.

© Shutterstock

What you can do -

Once you know more about what causes your anxiety, then you'll find that there are things you can do to better manage it.

© Shutterstock

Figure out your triggers -

Being able to predict what can start or worsen your anxiety can be very helpful in managing it. If it's difficult to identify your triggers, try to write it down. By journaling each situation, and what happens to your body and mind, you'll be able to narrow it down.

© Shutterstock

Prepare for and manage your trigger -

Try to turn to your self-care activities before any chaos happens. Coping mechanisms like distraction and mindfulness practice can be helpful. Also, opening up to others about what you're experiencing can help you get through it.  

Sources: (Health.com) (Healthline)

See also: Foods that help combat stress, anxiety, and depression

© Shutterstock