Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns affecting adults today, and yet it often goes unrecognized or misunderstood. While some level of anxiety is a normal part of being human, chronic or overwhelming anxiety can interfere with everyday life, relationships, work, and overall well-being.
If you’re an adult in Calgary who has been Googling things like “why am I always on edge?” or “how to manage anxiety,” you’re not alone – and there are proven, supportive ways to feel better.
This post will walk through:
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What anxiety really is
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Common signs and symptoms
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Causes and contributing factors
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Practical strategies for managing anxiety
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When to consider professional help
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is your body’s natural response to perceived danger or stress. It can involve physical sensations (like a racing heart), mental worry, and behavioural changes (like avoidance). Occasional anxiety is expected – for example, before a job interview or major life change – but persistent anxiety that disrupts your day-to-day life may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
There are several types of anxiety, including:
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
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Panic Disorder
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Social Anxiety Disorder
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Phobias
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Health Anxiety
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Each presents differently, but they share the common theme of excessive fear or worry that’s difficult to control. Learn more about anxiety disorders from CAMH or Anxiety Canada.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Adults
Anxiety shows up in many ways, and not always in the stereotypical form of panic attacks. Here are some of the most common symptoms adults report:
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Racing thoughts or constant worry
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Muscle tension or jaw clenching
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Trouble sleeping or feeling tired despite rest
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Difficulty concentrating
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Avoidance of certain situations or people
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Irritability or restlessness
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Digestive issues or frequent nausea
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Shortness of breath or heart palpitations
In many cases, anxiety becomes the “background noise” of a person’s life – always there, sometimes louder, sometimes quieter, but rarely fully gone.
If these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone. In fact, over 25% of Canadians will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, according to Statistics Canada.
What Causes Anxiety?
Anxiety is caused by a complex combination of factors. Some common contributors include:
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Genetics and family history
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Childhood experiences or trauma
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Chronic stress at work or home
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Perfectionism or high self-expectations
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Health conditions (like thyroid issues or heart problems)
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Sleep problems
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Substance use or withdrawal
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Life transitions (such as parenthood, career change, or loss)
In therapy at Solasta Counselling, we often help adults unpack these layers, exploring both the root causes and the current triggers of their anxiety. You don’t need to have “a big trauma” to experience anxiety. Sometimes it builds gradually, through prolonged stress or learned coping patterns that are no longer helpful.
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, talking to a therapist can be the first step toward clarity and calm. Book a free consultation with one of our Calgary-based clinicians to see how we can support you.
Strategies That Can Help with Anxiety
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to anxiety, but the good news is that many tools and approaches are available, from lifestyle changes to professional counselling. Here are a few to consider:
1. Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques
Practices like deep breathing, body scans, and mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce spiraling thoughts. Apps like Insight Timer and Calm are great places to start.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most well-researched approaches for treating anxiety. It helps you identify negative thinking patterns and replace them with more balanced, supportive thoughts. Learn more about CBT Therapy in Calgary.
3. Exercise and Movement
Regular physical activity helps regulate stress hormones and improve mood. Even 20 minutes of walking can make a difference.
4. Healthy Sleep and Nutrition Habits
Sleep and blood sugar regulation play a huge role in anxiety. Try to build calming nighttime routines and eat meals that support steady energy.
5. Therapy and Support
Working with a therapist can help you understand your anxiety, learn tools to manage it, and shift how you relate to your thoughts and body. At Solasta, we support adults with anxiety through:
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EMDR Therapy for anxiety rooted in trauma
We also offer online booking and free consultations to make the process easier and more accessible.
When to Seek Help
It’s time to consider therapy when anxiety:
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Interferes with work, relationships, or daily life
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Keeps you up at night
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Feels constant, unmanageable, or exhausting
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Leads to panic attacks or avoidance
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Makes it hard to enjoy the things you used to
You don’t have to wait for things to get “bad enough.” Counselling can be helpful at any stage, whether you’re in crisis or just feeling off.
You’re Not Alone — And You’re Not Broken
Anxiety is common, real, and treatable. Whether it’s loud and disruptive or quiet and persistent, it deserves care and attention.
At Solasta, our Calgary-based team offers compassionate, professional support for adults navigating anxiety and stress. We’re here to listen without judgment and work with you to build tools that actually help.
✨ Ready to take the first step? Reach out to our team or book online. We’re here when you’re ready.