Some people try to avoid the things that make them anxious. This means they may never get the chance to cope with and overcome their anxieties. Avoidance may bring short-term relief in the moment, but it also allows your anxiety to fester and grow. This is also known as the anxiety cycle or loop.
References
Department of Health. (n.d.). Anxiety – reversing the vicious cycle. Government of Western Australia.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Anxiety disorders.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023). Anxiety disorders.
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Written by:
Sophia KellerSophia Keller was an editorial intern on the GoodRx Health team. She has a bachelor’s degree in justice studies from Arizona State University.

Reviewed by:
Sanjai Sinha, MDSanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.








