Why do I feel anxious when things are going well in my life?
Anxiety & Stress
Anxiety during good times often stems from anticipating loss, feeling undeserving, or unfamiliarity with sustained happiness.
Feeling anxious when things are going well is a common but confusing experience that can stem from several psychological patterns. Many people develop what's sometimes called 'happiness Anxiety disorder' or 'success Anxiety disorder' - a fear that good times won't last or that you don't deserve them. This often develops from past experiences where happiness was followed by disappointment, Psychological trauma, or loss, creating an unconscious expectation that good things are temporary or dangerous. Your nervous system might have learned to associate peace with vulnerability, making you hypervigilant for potential threats even during positive periods. Some people feel guilty about being happy when others are struggling, or worry that expressing joy will invite jealousy or bad luck. Cultural or family messages about not getting 'too comfortable' or that life is supposed to be a struggle can also contribute to this Anxiety disorder. Additionally, if you're used to crisis mode or constant Psychological stress, calm periods can actually feel uncomfortable because your nervous system is calibrated for chaos. The absence of problems to solve or worry about can leave you feeling restless or searching for something to be concerned about. This Anxiety disorder might also reflect imposter syndrome - feeling like your success or happiness is unearned and will eventually be exposed as a mistake. It's important to recognize that feeling anxious about good times doesn't mean something bad will happen; it's often just your brain trying to protect you based on past experiences. Practice staying present during positive moments rather than fast-forwarding to potential problems. Gradually building tolerance for sustained happiness and success is possible with patience and sometimes professional support.