Psychological test: What you see first in this image might reveal if you’re an anxious person

Personality tests are everywhere on social media. You’ve probably seen friends sharing them. This one is simple but oddly telling: what do you see first in the image? It’s similar to this one about being ambitious. Your answer could point to how you process stress and emotions—maybe even whether anxiety plays a big role in your daily life.

This kind of visual test isn’t clinical or diagnostic. It’s just a way to reflect on what might be going on under the surface. Here, we’ll break down the meaning behind the two main shapes people usually spot first: the skull or the twin profiles. These clues can offer insight into how you deal with pressure and relationships. Think of it as a short pause to check in with yourself.

You saw the skull first

If your eyes immediately went to the skull, there’s a chance you’re carrying more tension than you’re letting on. People who spot this image first often tend to be more focused on problems than solutions. You may be dealing with chronic stress—whether from work, school, or personal routines—that’s beginning to feel like your default state.

This doesn’t mean you’re falling apart, but it could mean you’re living in a constant state of pressure. You might notice your mind looping around unfinished tasks, tight deadlines, or things that feel out of your control. Your thoughts may jump ahead to worst-case scenarios. When this pattern becomes familiar, it’s often a quiet sign of anxiety.

You’re likely someone who cares deeply about getting things right. That drive can lead to great results, but when it edges into perfectionism or obsession, it starts to hurt more than help. If you relate to this, it might be time to loosen your grip a little. You don’t need to solve everything at once. Making space for small, unrelated activities, something playful or creative, can give your brain a break.

You saw the twin faces first

If the first thing you noticed was the pair of faces in profile, your attention might be tuned more to your connections with others than your internal stress. You’re probably someone who thinks a lot about relationships, whether romantic, platonic, or unresolved.

You could be processing something emotional: a breakup, an ongoing relationship issue, or feelings for someone who doesn’t seem to notice you back. This image tends to catch the eye of people who are naturally sensitive to social cues. You’re probably very aware of how others feel, sometimes more than how you feel.

This doesn’t mean you’re anxious, but it might show you’re emotionally preoccupied. You might replay conversations in your head or wonder if you said or did the right thing. That kind of overthinking isn’t the same as anxiety, but it can still leave you feeling drained. In your case, clarity might come from turning inward for a moment instead of waiting for someone else’s reaction.

More on this visual test

This test isn’t based on scientific research, but it can be a useful mirror. Whether you’re dealing with inner tension or emotional distractions, recognizing it is the first step to managing it. Sometimes, what we see first in an image can reflect what’s dominating our mental space. Use it as a starting point—not a label—to check in with yourself.