Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States, age 18 and older, or 18% of the population. Unfortunately, only about one-third of people with anxiety receive treatment. So, knowing the signs of anxiety can help you deal with it.
Anxiety comes in many forms. However, all its varieties have one thing in common: excessive and irrational fear or worry. When anxiety becomes chronic or disruptive to our daily lives, we must seek professional help.
Signs of anxiety in the body can manifest themselves in numerous ways. This post will explore seven proven signs of anxiety in the body and offer tips on how to relax. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Feeling Restless
If you’re feeling restless, it could be a sign that your body is experiencing anxiety. When you’re anxious, your body is in “fight or flight” mode, which means it prepares to either fight or flee from a perceived threat.
This response protects you from danger, but it can also be triggered by things that aren’t actually dangerous, like public speaking or taking a test.
So, if you’re constantly feeling on edge, it’s a good idea to talk to a therapist to help you understand how to manage your anxiety.
2. Racing Heart or Difficulty Breathing
As discussed earlier, when our bodies are anxious, they go into “fight or flight” mode. Henceforth the body releases adrenaline and other stress hormones to prepare us to defend ourselves or run away.
Eventually, the heart rate increases and the airways open up to take in more oxygen. Consequently, it may increase heart rate, sweating, and shallow breathing.
Therefore, if you notice these signs, focus on slow, deep breathing to help calm your body.
3. Having a Hard Time Focusing or Concentrating
Have you ever felt like your mind is racing a mile a minute, and you can’t focus on anything? Or you’re in a fog and can’t seem to think straight? It could be a sign of anxiety.
When we’re anxious, our hearts start pounding, and we start breathing more quickly. This surge of adrenaline can make it hard to focus on anything else.
If you constantly have difficulty concentrating, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you figure out if there’s something more going on and provide treatment if necessary.
4. Trouble Falling or Staying Asleep
If you find it difficult to fall or stay asleep regularly, this can be frustrating and exhausting, leaving you feeling irritable and down. Chronic insomnia can indicate an underlying health condition, such as anxiety.
Anxiety is characterized by persistent worry and stress, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep.
In addition, anxiety can also cause physical symptoms, such as a racing heart and shallow breathing, which can further interfere with sleep.
If you regularly find yourself tossing and turning at night, it may be worth consulting your doctor.
5. Feeling Irritable or Easily Frustrated or on Edge
While everyone experiences anxiety differently, some common physical symptoms may indicate that your anxiety is out of control.
Feeling irritable or easily frustrated is one such symptom. When you’re constantly on edge, it’s not surprising that even the slightest problem can set you off.
If you get angry or frustrated more quickly than usual, it could be a sign that your anxiety is starting to take over.
Consult a doctor to assess whether your symptoms are due to anxiety or any other condition, and develop a treatment plan to help you feel better.
6. Having Muscle Tension, Headaches, and Stomach Aches
When we’re anxious, our muscles tense up to prepare for action. This can lead to headaches and neck pain.
Our stomachs might also start to feel upset because of the extra acid that’s produced when we’re stressed.
If these physical symptoms begin to interfere with our everyday activities, it might be time to talk to a mental health professional.
7. Excessive Worry or Rumination
Excessive worry or rumination can be a sign of anxiety in the body. It can also be a sign of depression.
For example, if you are excessively worried about your health, it may indicate your anxiety. Or, if you are excessively worried about a family member or friend, it may be a sign that you are anxious about their well-being.
If you often worry excessively or ruminate, consult a mental health professional to discover any underlying mental health conditions.
Related: How To Avoid Overthinking Quickly
How To Say Goodbye to Anxiety & Relax Your Body Quickly
When feeling anxious is constant or overwhelming — when it interferes with your relationships, job, or ability to enjoy life — it becomes a problem.
There are many ways to deal with anxiety, and learning to relax your body is one of them. Relaxing your body may include deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, or stretching. Taking time for yourself each day to practice some form of relaxation can help you manage your anxiety more effectively.
If you are struggling to relax on your own, consider seeking a therapist who can help you learn more about coping mechanisms specific to you.
Related: How Positive Emotions Impact Your Health
Sings of Anxiety Explained
Learning how to read your body’s signals and using relaxation techniques can make a big difference in managing anxiety.
If you find that you are struggling with anxiety regularly, seek out professional help. You can learn to manage your anxiety and lead a more fulfilling life with the proper techniques and support.
Have you noticed any of the signs of anxiety discussed in this article? Have you tried any relaxing techniques to manage your anxiety? What has worked best for you? Let me know in the comments below!
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