Recognizing Anxiety in Yourself

Anxiety in men often looks different than stereotypical images suggest. Instead of appearing nervous or worried, anxious men might seem irritable, controlling, or avoidant. They might overwork, over-exercise, or self-medicate with alcohol. They might not even know what they're experiencing is anxiety because they don't recognize the symptoms.

Recognizing anxiety is the first step toward addressing it. You can't deal with what you don't know you have.

How Anxiety Shows Up in Men

• Irritability and anger: Short fuse, easily frustrated
• Control: Need to control situations and outcomes
• Avoidance: Dodging situations that trigger discomfort
• Overworking: Staying busy to avoid internal discomfort
• Sleep problems: Racing thoughts, difficulty settling
• Physical symptoms: Muscle tension, headaches, stomach issues
• Self-medication: Alcohol, substances, screens to numb

You might think you're just stressed or easily annoyed. But constant worry about what could go wrong, a running commentary of worst-case scenarios, or persistent physical tension? That's often anxiety wearing a different mask.

The Thought Patterns

Catastrophizing: Jumping to worst-case scenarios

Constant vigilance: Always scanning for potential threats

Future focus: Mind always racing ahead, rarely present

What-if thinking: Endless hypotheticals that fuel worry

Need for certainty: Difficulty tolerating the unknown

What to Do

If you recognize these patterns in yourself, that's good. Awareness is the first step. Consider talking to a professional who can help you understand what you're experiencing and develop strategies for managing it. Anxiety is highly treatable. You don't have to live with it running your life.

Your Action Steps

This week: Notice the signs. When do you feel tension? What triggers irritability?

This month: Read more about anxiety to understand what you might be experiencing.

This quarter: If symptoms persist, talk to a professional about what you're noticing.