It is possible that anxiety can distort your perception and make you feel like you are wrong or doubt yourself even when you are not. Anxiety has a way of amplifying negative thoughts and creating self-doubt, which can lead to a negative self-image and low self-esteem. These distorted thoughts are often referred to as "cognitive distortions."
Some common cognitive distortions associated with anxiety include:
Catastrophizing: Magnifying the potential negative outcomes of a situation, expecting the worst-case scenario.
All-or-Nothing Thinking: Seeing things in black and white, without considering any middle ground or alternatives.
Overgeneralization: Drawing broad negative conclusions based on limited experiences.
Mind Reading: Assuming you know what others are thinking, usually assuming negative thoughts about yourself.
Personalization: Taking responsibility for events or situations that are beyond your control.
Filtering: Focusing solely on negative aspects and ignoring positive or neutral elements.
Emotional Reasoning: Believing that your feelings define reality, such as "I feel worthless, so I must be worthless."
Recognizing these cognitive distortions can be helpful in challenging anxious thoughts and distinguishing between genuine concerns and anxiety-induced beliefs. One effective approach for dealing with anxiety-driven thoughts is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can help identify and challenge these distortions, leading to more balanced and realistic thinking patterns.
If you find that anxiety is significantly affecting your self-perception and causing distress, it is essential to seek support from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance, support, and appropriate interventions to help you manage anxiety effectively.
Remember, anxiety can be managed, and you don't have to face it alone. Seeking professional help and talking to friends or family about your feelings can be the first steps towards overcoming anxiety and regaining a more positive and balanced perspective.