Common Myths About Anxiety (And What’s Actually True)

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health experiences in Australia, yet many misconceptions still circulate about what it is, how it works, and who it affects. These myths not only minimise the very real challenges people face but can also prevent individuals from seeking the support they deserve.

Understanding the facts helps reduce stigma and makes it easier for people to recognise symptoms, explore resources, and talk openly about their mental wellbeing.

For anyone wondering what does anxiety feel like, it's worth starting with a clear look at the common myths-and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: "Anxiety is just stress."

The truth: Stress and anxiety are related but not the same. Stress is typically a temporary response to a specific situation-tight deadlines, financial pressure, or a big life change. Anxiety, however, often persists even after the stressful situation has passed. It can show up as constant worry, physical discomfort, or a sense of dread for no identifiable reason. Unlike everyday stress, anxiety can interfere with sleep, work performance, and personal relationships.

Myth 2: "If you can't see it, it's not serious."

The truth: Anxiety disorders may not always present visible symptoms, but they can be deeply debilitating. Many people experience internal symptoms-racing thoughts, chest tightness, stomach upset, or overwhelming fear-that are invisible to others. This misconception often leads people to hide what they're going through, fearing they won't be taken seriously.

Myth 3: "People with anxiety just need to calm down."

The truth: If managing anxiety were as simple as calming down, no one would struggle with it. Anxiety is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Telling someone to "just relax" minimises their experience and often increases their frustration or distress. Effective strategies usually include structured coping tools, therapy, routine, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication-never simplistic comments.

Myth 4: "Anxiety only affects people who are weak."

The truth: Anxiety has nothing to do with strength or character. It affects people from all backgrounds-including high-achieving professionals, parents, students, athletes, and leaders. Many people with anxiety manage enormous responsibilities daily. Their ability to keep moving forward, often while managing intense internal challenges, is a sign of resilience, not weakness.

Myth 5: "Avoiding triggers will make anxiety go away."

The truth: Avoidance may bring short-term relief, but it tends to make anxiety stronger over time. When people constantly avoid situations that cause discomfort-public speaking, driving, social events- the brain learns that avoidance equals safety. Gradual exposure, with the right support, helps retrain the nervous system to respond more comfortably and confidently.

Myth 6: "Anxiety is always obvious."

The truth: Many people "mask" their anxiety extremely well. Some appear calm, organised, or even cheerful on the surface while dealing with constant overthinking or panic beneath. This is why it's important to check in with others, even if they seem fine. Anxiety often hides behind perfectionism, humour, over-preparation, or withdrawal.

Myth 7: "It's all in your head."

The truth: Anxiety involves very real physical symptoms. The body's fight-or-flight response can cause heart palpitations, sweating, shaking, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and more. These sensations can be frightening and sometimes mimic medical conditions, which is why people often mistake panic attacks for heart issues. Anxiety is both psychological and physiological.

Myth 8: "Anxiety will go away on its own."

The truth: While some people experience temporary anxiety during life transitions, ongoing anxiety disorders don't simply disappear. Without proper support, anxiety can worsen or become more deeply ingrained. Early intervention-whether through therapy, lifestyle changes, or support strategies-helps people regain control sooner and prevents long-term impacts.

Myth 9: "Talking about anxiety makes it worse."

The truth: Open conversations often reduce the power anxiety holds. When someone feels heard and supported, their symptoms frequently become more manageable. Professional guidance can also provide tools to help reframe thoughts, build resilience, and improve daily functioning. Silence tends to reinforce shame, while dialogue encourages recovery.

Myth 10: "Everyone gets anxious, so it's not a real condition."

The truth: While everyone experiences occasional anxiety, anxiety disorders are significantly different in intensity, duration, and impact. They can disrupt sleep, relationships, work, and physical health. Recognising anxiety as a legitimate mental health condition is essential for helping individuals seek appropriate care.

Supporting Yourself or Someone with Anxiety

If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent worry, physical symptoms, or emotional overwhelm, it's important to reach out for support. Simple steps, such as grounding exercises, daily routines, movement, or talking with a mental health professional, can make a meaningful difference. Understanding what anxiety truly is encourages compassion, reduces stigma, and helps people feel more comfortable seeking help.