When anxiety won't let you rest

From the moment you open your eyes in the morning, something is stirring in your chest. Nothing has happened yet, and still the thoughts keep coming one after another: the meeting later today, the email you need to answer, next month's rent. Your day hasn't even started and you already feel tired.

At night, once you're in bed, the thoughts keep spinning. What if I fail? What if I get sick? What if nothing ever changes? These questions with no answers go around and around. Every time you check the clock, you get even more worried that you can't fall asleep.

To the people around you, you probably look fine. You take the train, you get your work done, you laugh with others. But inside, it always feels like something is chasing you. The more people tell you that you worry too much, the more misunderstood and alone you feel.

A racing heart, shallow breathing, tight shoulders. Anxiety doesn't only live in your thoughts. It settles into your body too. That isn't because you are weak. It's also a sign that your body is doing everything it can to protect you.

Tonight, many people are staring at their ceilings, unable to fall asleep. You are not the only one living with this anxiety. The simple fact that you are reading these words right now is already a step toward taking care of yourself.