What may be happening
You may hide symptoms or avoid treatment because others "have real problems." Social media highlights of others' hardship can intensify unworthy feelings.
What can help
Use the broken-leg test: would you deny care because someone has cancer? Stop ranking pain—your nervous system does not consult a suffering leaderboard. Seek treatment; functioning better helps you contribute positively. Practice self-compassion statements when comparison guilt arises. Limit doomscrolling that fuels unworthy comparisons. Discuss anxiety with a clinician rather than debating whether you deserve help.
When to get support
Consider professional support if symptoms persistently interfere with daily life, relationships, or safety. Seek urgent help if you are having thoughts of self-harm or feel unable to stay safe; in the U. S. , call or text 988. Seek evaluation if anxiety is frequent, causes panic, or impairs daily life.