7 'Positive' Traits That Are Secretly Anxiety In Disguise

While these habits may seem like good things, they can be a sign that something deeper is going on.

Do you find yourself saying yes to everything? Maybe you worry that if you say no, the other person will be mad at you, or you’ll have FOMO later. Or more generally, you might feel like you’re walking on a tightrope all the time, trying to be “good enough” and relating a little extra hard to Taylor Swift’s song “mirrorball.”

While these feelings may play out as competence and hard work — good qualities — they can indicate the presence of anxiety. It’s important to know that’s not a bad thing, but it can be unhelpful.

“This is especially true when we find ourselves engaging in behaviors to avoid sitting with the discomfort of anxiety,” said Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, a psychologist and the media adviser for the Hope for Depression Research Foundation.

While it’s only natural to try to avoid anxiety — or any uncomfortable emotion — stress that’s not dealt with can lead to health problems, harmful coping strategies and more.

So, consider trying to be more aware of when you’re falling into that trap. Ahead, check out some of the signals. Do they hit home?