Feeling anxious
Worried about what might happen, often with a racing mind or a tight chest.
If this feeling is heavy right now, you don’t have to hold it alone. Free support is available.
Where it sits on the wheel
Anxious is in the middle ring, under Afraid. Further out: worried, nervous and uneasy.
A gentle prompt
What is one thing you can see, hear or touch right now? Write it down slowly, and stay with it for a breath.
Kept in this browser as you type. Saved answers join your journal on this device; nothing is sent anywhere.
This browser isn’t keeping saved data, so answers will be lost when you close the tab.
Something that might help right now
A slow breathing guide. Some people find a few slow breaths help them feel steadier.
Feelings near anxious
Afraid (one ring in)
Afraid is often about a threat you can name, now or soon. Anxious is worry about what might happen, often without a clear end.
Overwhelmed (also under Afraid)
Anxious is worry about what might happen; overwhelmed is about too much happening now.
Insecure (also under Afraid)
Anxious worries about what might happen; insecure worries about yourself and how you measure up.
Worried (further out)
Worried is usually about something specific; anxious can be broader, and is often felt in the body too.
Nervous (further out)
Nervous is jittery before one particular thing; anxious can linger without one.
Uneasy (further out)
Uneasy is a vague sense that something isn’t right; anxious is usually stronger.
About the feelings wheel
Anxious is one of the 104 words on the Slow Days feelings wheel, and the list of feelings has them all. The wheel isn’t a test or a diagnosis.
If a feeling has been heavy for a while, or you don’t feel safe, please talk to someone you trust or reach out for free support. If you’re in danger, call your local emergency number.