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Is it normal to feel more anxious when you're alone?

307 Answers
Last Updated: 04/17/2022 at 6:09pm
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Top Rated Answers
BlankaM
May 18th, 2019 1:58pm
Absolutely. If your thoughts are disturbing you and you get anxious, that is completely fine. Everyone gets anxious about certain things, work, school, relationships. The main challenge is dealing with those emotions and thoughts that make you anxious. Over-thinking problems or issues is probably the reason why you are getting anxious. So try and target the root cause of the problem. Identfify the anxiety, target it and find a solution. Ask yourself, how can I overcome this thought so that it doesn't bother me and doesn't make me anxious? Sometimes we have to forcefully change our thoughts and not let it wonder off! Thinking about things that won't happen and constructing scenarios in your head won't do any good. Keep your mind at ease and at peace, tackle the anxious thoughts.
Anonymous
August 7th, 2019 1:26am
Yes, it is for sure very very normal. There are many reasons you'd feel more anxious alone. Everyones anxiety is different and for some, being alone is when thoughts come; subconscious or conscious. Some could actually not like being alone and it makes them anxious. Maybe figuring out your reason could help you. Ive personally had most anxiety attacks alone or having the attack have nothing to do with people. But yes, all things said, it is absolutely without a single doubt, normal to feel more anxious when youre alone. But still learn to be happy alone always. Its important.
Anonymous
August 28th, 2019 4:15pm
i think it is normal since when you're alone and have no distractions, your mind will bring up all sort of stuff and your worries will get accentuated by all the thoughts that invade your mind.
AwakeningTheHeartWithin
August 30th, 2019 11:26pm
When we are alone, we are alone with our own thoughts. We are not engaging in conversations with others that would limit the amount of thinking that we may be doing if we are alone. It is possible to have more anxiety when you are alone unless you have social anxiety which generally means you get anxiety when you are amongst large groups of people. For most people being around other people is comforting & being alone a lot of the time by yourself may actually create anxiety as humans are naturally social creatures & do desire to be in the company of others.
Anonymous
September 1st, 2019 1:12am
Autophobia is an anxiety disorder that is triggered by the idea and experience of spending time alone. Like other anxiety disorders, autophobia may lead to some physical, as well as psychological, symptoms. Autophobia can be distressing to experience and may have a negative impact on a person's life if left untreated. Understanding autophobia and how it can be treated helps people who have the condition to manage it better. This article explores the definition of autophobia, its key symptoms, and the treatments available. So yes it is normal to feel more anxious when alone because I know I do. Sending hugs.
bunnyssong
September 13th, 2019 3:54am
I think in some cases, yes. I say "some" cases because for example in my case, I tend to be more anxious when there's a lot of people around me. I feel more conscious, I feel like there's too much going on and it's overloading my senses. For others, they may feel more anxious when alone because of the feeling like there's no support around, or no help available in case something happens. For some, I think it's because of a feeling of loneliness. In any case, I think that anxiety can be felt by anyone, anywhere, at any time.
queenofakind
September 18th, 2019 4:15pm
It's completely normal to feel anxious when you're alone. For some of us, it can feel like your anxiety is spiraling out of control when you're by yourself. There are resources out there to help you understand what triggers your anxiety, and help you gain control over your emotions. Meditation can be a wonderful tool for overcoming anxious feelings. Trying a breathing exercise can help you feel more relaxed in moments, as well as interacting with a beloved pet or listening to your favorite Music. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you think your anxiety is getting the best of you and you are struggling to overcome it!
Anonymous
September 21st, 2019 9:17pm
yes, it absolutely is. it's completely normal to feel anxious when you're alone, or when you're not busy doing something. this is because you aren't being distracted, so your brain is more likely to overthink things. what can help is finding things to do, breathing exercises, and reminding yourself that everything will be okay.
politeMagic1163
September 27th, 2019 1:55pm
I can only speak from my own personal experience. Whenever I am alone, especially after having been in an overwhelming situation (such as being in a car full of shouting, angry people, or a large crowd) for an extended period of time that could be 20 minutes or more, the second I am left alone, my mind become numb to all feeling, like I can’t fully process what happened, and then 20 to 30 minutes after the emotional numbness starts, all the emotions that were completely muted rush back to me. Of course, that’s an panic attack, but as far as anxiety and anxiety attacks go, when I’m alone for more than 6 hours, I start to get all anxious about being unproductive.
FoxInTheBox
October 6th, 2019 6:15am
From what I've observed, it's more likely for anxiety to come along whilst you're alone, but it doesn't have to be that way. When you're with people, there's enough things on your mind to distract you off your anxieties. However, when you're alone and not too preoccupied, your ever running brain runs into deeper spaces and starts to overthink, or steer into directions that result in anxiety. Some people are very accustomed to being by themselves, and are comfortable in their own skin, so they're probably better off handling such situations. Others may need more social affection and love from people around, and may fall into anxiety traps while being alone. But the key really is to develop confidence and control in oneself over time, and to fend off any negative thoughts with distractions. That kinda wires your head to not go into those dark spaces, over time.
KindCherry3683
October 16th, 2019 2:39am
Often times, it can feel daunting to be alone, whether that be physically or mentally. I found myself feeling both more anxious and less anxious at the same time. Experiencing social anxiety made me feel worried when having social interactions, yet at the same time being stuck in my room alone made me feel scared. I believe it's the community and the support that make it feel better to not be alone. While I did feel worried, I felt worse when I was engulfed in my thoughts. And often times, that was when I was alone. I believe that humans are social creatures, which is why I feel it is normal to feel more anxious alone. It is because we all need people, support, and love. And that is what 7cups most definitely provides.
peacefulLight8704
October 17th, 2019 1:22am
Yes, i experience this, and i dare say that a ton of other people know exactly what you are talking about. When we are around other people and are engaged in fun activities or conversation, we are a bunch more simulated and we find it easier to take our mind off the subject at hand. When we are alone, there is not any thing that can serve as a distraction. I know for me, my mind seeks out things to be anxious about when it is bored or lonely. I don't know if that's how it is for you, but it may be.
gentleSun78
October 24th, 2019 8:31am
It can be normal for person who feels more anxious when they are alone, but it doesn't mean that everyone feels more anxious when they are alone as people are very different. Yes, if you can cope well with being alone and not getting anxious, it is great thing as you can cope more with, for example, breakups, divorce, etc and can also engage in more healthy relationships as you won't go to relationships in order to help coping with mentioned anxiety, but purely because you like the person with who you will go to relationship and also this person likes you. But also feeling more anxious when you are alone is normal, albeit less healthy as you have got less options to adjust to life circumstances you face (living alone, etc).
Anonymous
November 14th, 2019 12:34am
Yes is is very normal, you go through stress while your alone because you think, which leads to overthinking...If someone else is with you, they will get your anxiety calmed because they aren't going to let you think by yourself. When your alone you have nothing to talk to except your mind, which feeds you a lot of anxiety, worry about the future, possible stress, and negative feelings about yourself! This is normal because when you are alone, you feel like there's nobody there for you, but when you aren't alone you are occasionally happy to get your mind off of those negative things.
InsomniacCactus
November 14th, 2019 2:13am
Not for everyone, but it's not a bad thing! I get like this, and When I'm personally alone, it's a bit easier for me to become anxious. The silence bothers me, but I cope by listening to music, drawing, reading or writing. It's a totally normal thing for some people, try to relax, count your breaths, and find a healthy and safe coping mechanism. It's going to be okay, and anxiety is a meanie, but coping with it is one of the best ways to go. If you'd like, make little doodles on your arm with skin safe products even! :)
Anonymous
December 6th, 2019 2:40am
Absolutely. Anxiety is something that can be hard to make sense of sometimes, but there’s no right or wrong, or a definite example of anxiety. Some people are more anxious in social situations, whereas others can be more anxious by themselves. But it can start to make more sense when you break it all down. When you’re alone, you don’t have distractions or other people around to shift the anxious thoughts. If you already have some anxiety, being alone could amplify it. It can leave you open to overthinking, worrying, and then more anxiety. It’s very normal, but I understand it’s not a nice rut to be stuck in. Learning and practising some mindfulness excercises can be really useful in my experience. But if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with anxiety, and you’re worried about it being worse when you’re alone, please feel free to talk to someone about it. You’re not alone and there’s always ways to improve things for yourself. Good luck!
alexsevenrings
December 13th, 2019 1:21pm
yes, absolutely. sometimes when we are alone and have way much time to think about everything, even things what is not really exist or aren't really able to make you nervous, when you are staying alone they are comes to your head and you cant make them gone alone... at this time you want someone to talk, about anything positive... and you will not even able to think about bad stuff and mobilize for the moment. if you dont want to talk with someone, go out somewhere even alone for fresh air or just talk with yourself at home... relax.
heyitsjoyjoy
December 13th, 2019 10:22pm
I feel like it is normal, from personal experience. When I am alone I begin to think more, and my overthinking can sometimes lead to feelings of anxiety. I begin to think about why I am alone to begin with, maybe about how if I were "more fun," I would be hanging out with a friend instead. I also get worried about my future, if I will have to spend loads of time alone then, things that I wouldn't think about around other people. But then I remind myself that there are just thoughts in my head, and that I do not feel them when other people are around.
hopefulPower94
December 15th, 2019 5:33am
I think each of us experiences anxiety differently so I think it is common to feel that way. One way to look at it is: when we are alone, the anxious or negative thoughts can get louder. No one is around to distract us from what goes on inside our heads. I find that to be true for me. One example is when we try to go to sleep, but we are stressing about what happened that day. We may have gotten through the day okay, but then we are alone with no distractions. I'm wondering if you can try to treat yourself with loving kindness during those times. I know it's not easy, but you deserve to be gentle with yourself. I know how exhausting this can be. Hang in there.
healthylistener
February 24th, 2021 4:07am
From personal experience I find myself more anxious when I am alone, and especially when I am alone and everybody else is sleeping, so there is nobody to talk to. I believe that because of this, it is important for people to have a huge toolbox to reach into to be able to feel their feet on the ground and to know that the mountain isn't going to crash down on them. Anxiety is a sneaky thing in that it just creeps up on you so often without any warning at all. My hope is that people can know that they are not alone in this journey and that anxiety doesn't need to define their entire being.
Anonymous
April 22nd, 2021 1:45pm
It is totally normal. When you are alone you don't have as many distractions. So there ends up being a pile up of emotions and feelings that you avoiding. Deadlines, homework assignments, etc. All of them feeling like they are falling on you at the same time. It can extremely difficult to manage them and keep yourself from having anxiety attack. There is also the prospect of missing out on something, or because you are alone the spiral of what did I do wrong, why am I not with these people, do they not like me? It can be extremely difficult but totally normal
Anonymous
April 21st, 2021 2:07pm
the words "is it normal" are so hard to answer because every person on the planet is different. it's difficult to generalize one feeling for every person out there. Instead of asking someone else if it's normal, try asking yourself is it normal for you. Is this a new occurrence for you? Is it affecting your mental health negatively? You're the only person that knows yourself, so if you feel like this isn't normal for you, then maybe you should seek some professional help. Especially if you notice that it is harming your mental health. So, is it normal for you?
teri03
April 11th, 2021 12:20pm
It really depends. Someone would feel more anxious when around other people, someone would feel more anxious alone. Both of these are absolutely normal, valid and there´s nothing wrong with the ones feeling this way. The important things is to acknowledge these feelings, realize that they are here, accept them and try to discover where they come from. Anyways acknowledging these feelings is the first and very important step to feel better. We can not fight with something that is not present. Once we know what we live through, we can do something with it and fight with it.
Anonymous
April 10th, 2021 8:02am
I think that everyone feels anxious over many different things and that when you are left alone those feelings tend to spike. This can be cause of many different things but a main factor being that when you are left alone you have no one’s opinions and thoughts but your own. I find that when I am anxious I tend to use other people as a distraction from my worries and then when I am left alone these worries will then increase as there is a lack of distractions. When you are left alone you can also start to feel lonely which can sometimes be another factor that can spike anxiety.
DylanletterR
April 4th, 2021 2:36pm
Yes! This is totally normal! When we are alone, most of us will naturally feel more vulnerable and on edge as we only have ourselves to protect us. As an adult, I still feel this way, and I have lived on my own for awhile. If you are looking for a way to better manage these emotions. Think to yourself, "Am I currently at risk for anything to happen to me?" or "What is making me anxious about being alone?" By thinking these phrases to yourself, you are more likely to find the reasons behind your anxiety, whether it be a past situation or just getting used to being alone. Hope this helps!
CheerfulFay8227
March 25th, 2021 9:11am
Yes! We tend to think deep when we are alone. When we are with our friends and family, anxiety doesn't easily slip in because we have socializing and activities that take our minds of a lot. Being an introvert, I have seen that the idea of being alone might be amazing, but in true fact, I have a lot of thoughts at that moment and it becomes easier to be anxious. Maybe you are a positive thinker, that is an advantage. If not then you definitely will become anxious. Bad thougts have a negative impact on our emotions. Our brain as well has a connection with the heart. Emotional stress and anxiety work hand in hand. So yes, when we are alone we are more anxious.
Anonymous
February 28th, 2021 7:54pm
Of course! Being alone can put thoughts in your mind, (As in your not loved, hated, or just bring scared in general) which can cause anxiety! So many things cause anxiety, which is A okay! Sometimes being alone is stressful, and I tend to find that things like panic attacks and anxiety attacks happen more when you're alone! It's a very normal thing and nobody's alone when they go through this! Having anxiety is normal when you are alone or with people! Anxiety is a scary thing, so never be afraid to contact somebody about your worries! Thanks, ❤️
Anonymous
February 24th, 2021 9:12am
yes i guess it is more normal to feel more anxious when you are alone since you dont have any body with you to distract you from feeling alone of just to distract you at all...distractions help the mind in so many ways thats why TV was a big hit and books are still popular they help take your mind somewhere else away from your current situation into another place a story helps so much so looking for distractions or socializing will help a lot with anxiety when it comes to being alone try to read as much as possible!
Anonymous
November 27th, 2020 8:28am
In my opinion, it's completely normal. We may have been used to being around a lot of people because it makes you feel safe. But when you're alone, you feel like you're being followed and it just never fails to give you the creeps. You just never know when someone's watching you. Though some people may feel normal when they're alone, the danger is still there. It lurks in every corner so we all have to be really careful. Even when you're hanging out in a group, your safety isn't stable as you think it is. Risky things may happen anywhere and anytime. So be careful when you're alone. Look at your back..
Anonymous
December 5th, 2020 7:18am
That makes sense, absolutely. When you're alone, it can feel like there's no one there to protect you if something bad happens, which is scary. Or, sometimes, I find that when I'm alone and there's no one around to distract me from my own mind, it's easier for my thoughts to run wild or spiral down and make me overthink things, which can certainly cause a lot of anxiety. Being alone can really get you stuck inside your head, for sure. Do you feel that you're more anxious when you're alone, or do you think these things are true for you at all?