Psychology Today | 24.04.2026 21:46
After a long day, you’re scrubbing the counters spotless. Or your partner mentions a problem, and before they finish, you’re already planning a solution. On the surface, these habits seem helpful. But often, they reveal a deeper instinct: trying to ease anxiety by controlling ourselves, our environment, or others. When we feel anxious, uncertain, or overwhelmed, our go-to response is often to grab for a sense of control.
