search
search
close
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield - Blue Shield Logo
search
  1. Home
  2. Resources
  3. Mental Health Services
  4. Anxiety
A man taking a deep breath in the open air of the outdoors to illustrate knowing the anxiety warning signs.

Anxiety

Anxiety

warning_amber
warning signs
medical_services
treatment
diversity_1
how to help
menu_book
Personal Story
warning_amber
warning signs
medical_services
treatment
diversity_1
how to help
menu_book
Personal Story
Close-up of a person's hands that are together and nervous to illustrate anxiety warning signs.

Anxiety warning signs

It’s normal to have some worry that comes and goes with the stresses of life. However, if you find yourself in a consistent state of uneasiness and fear, you may be experiencing anxiety that can impact school, work, and relationships. That’s why it’s important to recognize the symptoms and seek help. Anxiety is common and also very treatable.
see anxiety warning signs

Are you or a loved one in crisis?

Are you or a loved one in crisis?

If you think you have a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Call or text 988 (TTY 711) or visit the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for 24-hour, toll-free, confidential support for you or your loved ones.

If you think you have a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Call or text 988 (TTY 711) or visit the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for 24-hour, toll-free, confidential support for you or your loved ones.

get 24-hour help

Anxiety types and treatments

Learn more about types of anxiety and anxiety treatments.

  • A group of young adults looking at their mobile devices to illustrate types of anxiety.

    Types of anxiety

    Types of anxiety include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder.
    learn more about anxiety
  • A middle-aged man talking to a doctor about treatments for anxiety.

    Treatment options

    Treatment for anxiety may include psychotherapy, medication or a combination of both.
    Anxiety treatments
photo of a hand feeling the flowers in a quiet meadow

Sara’s story

Sara’s story

See how Sara worked with her therapist to overcome anxiety.

See how Sara worked with her therapist to overcome anxiety.

read the story

How to help someone with anxiety

If someone you love may be struggling with anxiety, here are some tips for how you might start a conversation and encourage them to get help.

  • Do

    • Express empathy
    • Offer to listen or spend time with them 
    • Let them know their experiences and feelings are valid
    • Help them with tasks that anxiety can make difficult 
    read more

  • Don’t

    • Tell them not to worry, to “relax,” or “just stay positive”
    • Express shock
    • Belittle 
    • Blame 
    • Shame
    read more