Thread by @CactusMHS

Anxiety Struggles: What you see VS what the person living with anxiety feels

This list might not reflect everyone's lived experience of anxiety. So pls feel free to add to this thread! 🙂

Source: BlessingManifesting

#AcademicMentalHealth #PhDVoice @OpenAcademics @PhD_Balance

ALT text (1/)

What you see: Needy
What I feel: It's difficult to go places and do things by myself

What you see: Not a Team Player
What I feel: Group settings either make me shut down or do everything myself.

ALT text (2/)

What you see: Ignores you
What I feel: I love you but it's hard to invite you over or answer calls/text/ emails

What you see: Homebody
What I feel: I want to go, but I am too anxious and overwhelmed to go. I'm sorry.

ALT text (3/)

What you see: Distracted
What I feel: I play on my phone when I'm anxious, but I'm still paying attention!

What you see: Irresponsible
What I feel: It's hard to return calls and make appointments but I'm trying.

ALT text (4/)

What you see: Forgetful
What I feel: When I'm super anxious, my mind zones out and I don't absorb anything.

What you see: Unapproachable
What I feel: If I see you unexpectedly in public I will panic and try to ignore you.

ALT text (5/5)

What you see: Insecure
What I feel: Anxiety makes me question everything, especially if people like me.

Anxiety Struggles: What you see versus what I feel. An image by BlessingManifesting (Instagram)