Many of us live with a steady undercurrent of stress. We worry about finances, family, health, and a never-ending to-do list.

Sometimes, stress and anxiety are helpful. It gives us a surge of adrenaline, motivating us to prepare for an upcoming challenge. When that moment passes, so does the worry.

But not always.

Some of us live with anxiety—the “stress” that doesn’t go away. We have difficulty moving our thoughts away from a specific incident or dwelling on what could happen. The “what ifs” take over. A certain place, memory, or even a scent can send our nervous system into fight-or-flight mode—leading to a full-blown panic attack.

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My Journey with Anxiety

I began experiencing anxiety when I was young, though I didn’t have the words to explain it back then. I certainly didn’t share it with my mom—I just knew I wanted to escape whatever situation triggered the discomfort.

Even now, as an adult with more understanding, I’m not immune. There are still moments when something unexpected can spark that same response. If I don’t use calming techniques, the panic can take over.

And panic attacks? They’re ugly.

When fight-or-flight kicks in, I choose flight. If I can’t control the situation, I’ll quietly do everything I can to avoid or escape it—without letting anyone know what’s really going on.

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Why Anxiety is So Hard to Talk About

Anxiety and depression are still widely misunderstood. When someone with anxiety takes the brave step to open up, the response they fear most is often the one they receive: discomfort, pat answers or quiet avoidance. Anxiety is no small issue.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders affect over 40 million adults in the U.S.—nearly 20% of the population. And women are affected more often than men, often juggling family, caregiving, and careers.

If anxiety is interfering with your life, please seek help. A supportive doctor or counselor who understands anxiety can make all the difference. Medication may be a helpful part of that journey—and it’s okay to need it.

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What About Faith?

For years, the church struggled to talk about mental health. Thankfully, that’s changing. Many faith communities now recognize that anxiety and depression aren’t character flaws or signs of spiritual failure.

I’ve heard people say anxiety is simply a lack of trust in God. And if I’d only pray more, I’d be healed.

Believe me—prayer has always been my first response.

But that doesn’t mean my anxiety has disappeared.

I’m reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12. He speaks about a “thorn in the flesh” that God chose not to remove. Instead, God said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

That verse has become a lifeline for me.

When others don’t understand my anxiety, God listens without judgment. When I feel alone, He is near. Anxiety has actually deepened my faith. It’s why I depend on Him daily. I know I can’t manage it alone.

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You’re Not Alone

If anxiety has taken a toll on your life or faith, know this: you are not broken, and you are not alone. God meets us right there—in the middle of the struggle. And His grace is still enough.

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A book I can highly recommend:

Fearless in 21 Days: A Survivor’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Sarah E. Ball.

A practical and faith-based guide to healing from fear, anxiety, panic, and depression—written by someone who’s been through it. Available in eBook format. Read my review here.

From Amazon’s description: “This book is a testimony of hope and a day-by-day guide to healing the mind using mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual applications for those bound by crippling fear, anxiety, panic disorders, and depression.”

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