Have you ever snapped at a loved one over something small, wondering if your irritability is just part of who you are? Perhaps you realize that your patience is wearing thin more often. If you recognize yourself in this, you might be asking, “Am I irritable because of my anxiety?” The answer is likely “maybe, probably.”

Anxiety can feel like an uninvited guest that lingers far too long. For many years, I grappled with feelings of unease and worry that seeped into nearly every part of my life. Then I discovered a powerful tool that transformed my approach to managing anxiety: affirmations.

Anxiety is a feeling that many of us know well. We all have those moments, whether it's a quick flutter of nerves before a big presentation or an overwhelming sense of dread before exams. The reality is that while anxiety is common, it is also quite complex. But how do we distinguish between normal anxiety and anxiety disorders?