How Do I Know If I Have Anxiety​? 10 Signs You Might Need Some Help

Do I have anxiety?’ If that question has been circling in your mind, or if you’ve found yourself Googling ‘how do I know if I have anxiety?’, you’re not alone. Worrying from time to time is a part of being human, but persistent, overwhelming fear can hint at something deeper. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference, point you toward our self-check ‘do I have an anxiety disorder' quiz, outline clear signs it may be time to talk with a professional and show you how to find caring help through Life Supports Counselling.

Our Anxiety Test: Check out Our Results Below

Part 1 Total Score: Add up the points from all 7 questions.
Score Range: 0–21

• 0–4 = Minimal Anxiety
  
  

• 5–9 = Mild Anxiety
  
  

• 10–14 = Moderate Anxiety

• 15–21 = Severe Anxiety
  
  

10 Signs It Might Be Time to See a Therapist for Your Anxiety

If your day-to-day life is feeling increasingly hijacked by worry and questioning whether you have an anxiety disorder, these signs can help you decide whether extra support could make a meaningful difference.

Worry Feels Constant and Uncontrollable

Thought-loops spiral day and night, making it hard to switch off, even during downtime.

Physical Tension Doesn’t Go Away 

Physical symptoms like tight shoulders, a racing heart, a clenched jaw or an upset stomach linger despite attempting coping strategies like exercise or mindful breathing.

Panic Episodes Catch You Off Guard

Sudden surges of breathlessness, dizziness or chest tightness make you fear something catastrophic and lead you to wonder, do I have an anxiety disorder? 

Sleep Has Become a Struggle

Difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime waking, or waking exhausted can be a red flag for anxiety. 

Everyday Decisions Feel Disproportionately Difficult 

Going supermarket shopping, replying to messages or making weekend plans sparks disproportionate dread or second-guessing.

Concentration Is Difficult 

Re-reading the same paragraph over and over or zoning out in meetings is becoming your new normal.

You Find Yourself Avoiding Commitments 

You cancel social events, skip classes or appointments, or avoid driving certain routes because of “what if” fears. 

Irritability Appears Out of Nowhere

Small frustrations provoke sudden anger or tears, leaving you (and those around you) confused by your own reactions.

Perfectionism Turns Every Task Into a Test

You spend excessive time checking, editing or rehearsing, worried that any mistake will have dire consequences.

Reassurance No Longer Works

Friends and family try to calm you, but their words have little impact. 

How to Take Action

1. Start your search: Look for counsellors, psychologists or social workers specialising in anxiety. A simple “anxiety therapist near me” search will surface local options, as will visiting the Life Supports location page.
   
   

2. Check credentials: In Australia, reputable therapists are registered with bodies such as PACFA, APS or ACA. Their profiles should mention their qualifications and areas of focus.
   
   

3. Expect a quick, friendly intake: At Life Supports, you call or send us a message via our contact page, share how you’re feeling, your location and any therapist preferences.
   
   

4. Get matched: Our team helps you find the practitioner best suited to your goals and books a session time that fits your schedule.
   
   

5. Know what the first sessions involve: Your therapist gathers background information on your situation and collaborates with you on clear goals. Most meaningful change develops over 4-6 sessions and deepens beyond 8-10 as needed.

Therapy is a conversation, not a test - no judgment, just skilled guidance toward calmer ground.

The Main Benefits of Therapy for Anxiety

Therapy offers more than a listening ear. A skilled counsellor will help you:

• Identify root causes: Explore the ‘why do I have anxiety?’ beneath symptoms, such as past experiences, thinking patterns, and lifestyle factors.

• Develop coping strategies: Learn evidence-based tools such as CBT reframing, relaxation and mindfulness.
  
  

• Build emotional resilience: Practise tolerating uncertainty and regulating intense feelings without avoidance.
  
  

• Improve relationships and work performance: Reduced anxiety frees up mental bandwidth for connection and productivity.
  
  

• Prevent escalation: Early intervention lowers the risk of panic disorder or physical health complications linked to chronic stress.

Ready to Feel Lighter? Reach Out to Life Supports Today

Asking ‘do I have anxiety?’ is a courageous first step. Whether you’ve taken our quiz, recognised several warning signs, or simply sense you could feel better, professional support can change everything. Our nationwide network of qualified counsellors is ready to help you untangle anxious thoughts, regain calm, and rediscover enjoyment in everyday life. Call Life Supports on 1300 735 030 or make a confidential online enquiry today - you don’t have to navigate anxiety alone.