Key Takeaways
- Anxiety triggers the “fight or flight” response, releasing stress hormones that lead to physical symptoms.
- Digestive problems like nausea and diarrhea are a frequent physical symptom of anxiety.
- Anxiety often increases heart rate and causes palpitations due to adrenaline release.
- A Mission for Michael (AMFM) offers comprehensive anxiety treatment, by using therapies like CBT and DBT to target root causes and symptoms in supportive home-like facilities across California, Virginia, and Washington.
What Anxiety Feels Like in Your Body
Anxiety affects more than just your mental state; it profoundly impacts the body, manifesting in various physical symptoms that can be both surprising and overwhelming. It triggers the body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body to face perceived threats. However, when these threats are ongoing or non-physical, it can cause persistent physical symptoms.
Why Your Body Reacts to Anxiety
The body’s reaction to anxiety is rooted in the primal “fight or flight” response, designed to protect us from immediate physical dangers. However, in modern scenarios, such as work or school stress, these threats are more psychological, leading to chronic anxiety. If these reactions persist, they can cause serious health issues, making it crucial to manage them to maintain overall well-being.
| A Mission For Michael: Expert Mental Health Care Founded in 2010, A Mission For Michael (AMFM) offers specialized mental health care across Southern California, Washington, and Virginia. Our accredited facilities provide residential and outpatient programs, utilizing evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. Our dedicated team of licensed professionals ensures every client receives the best care possible, supported by accreditations from The Joint Commission and the California Department of Health Care Services. We are committed to safety and personalized treatment plans. Start your recovery journey with AMFM today! |
Main Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
Stomach and Digestive Issues
Anxiety often affects the digestive system, manifesting as a knot in the stomach, nausea, or more severe symptoms like diarrhea or constipation. This link between the gut and emotional state is due to the gut’s role as the “second brain.” It’s highly influenced by stress hormones which disrupt normal digestive functioning.
Increased Heart Rate and Palpitations
Anxiety can also significantly increase heart rate, causing palpitations and a pounding sensation in the chest. This response is triggered by the release of adrenaline, which prepares the body for physical action, a process beneficial in actual emergencies but often unnecessary and uncomfortable in daily life.
Less Common Physical Symptoms
Skin Reactions and Itchiness
Anxiety may trigger skin reactions like itchiness, rashes, or hives due to the stress-induced release of histamines. Stress-related behaviors, such as scratching or picking at the skin or even hair pulling (aka trichotillomania), can further aggravate these symptoms.
Changes in Appetite
- Reduced Appetite: Some individuals may feel too anxious to eat, skipping meals and potentially undermining their nutritional health.
- Increased Eating: Others might turn to overeating as a coping mechanism for stress.
Unexpected Fatigue and Weakness
Anxiety can lead to unusual tiredness and weakness, not necessarily linked to physical exertion or lack of sleep. This fatigue often results from the constant state of alertness and stress that depletes energy reserves. Additionally, anxiety can disrupt sleep, causing insomnia or restless nights, further contributing to daytime fatigue.
Managing Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
Breathing Exercises and Relaxation Techniques
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing involves finding a quiet place to sit or lie down comfortably. You breathe in deeply through your nose, allowing your stomach to expand. Hold the breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process several times to help calm your nervous system.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation consists of tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in your body, starting from the toes and progressing to the head. This technique can significantly reduce physical tension and alleviate anxiety.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation encourages you to focus on being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. There are various techniques to try such as breathing methods and guided imagery, that can relax both the body and mind and help reduce stress.
Physical Activity and Its Benefits
Exercise
Regular activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or dancing decrease stress hormones and increase endorphins This dual effect reduces anxiety and enhances overall physical health.
Types of Activities
Incorporating a variety of exercises into your daily routine, such as walking, jogging, yoga, or dancing, can better manage anxiety. These activities help reduce stress, boost self-esteem, and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Seeking Professional Help
Therapy
Engaging with mental health professionals such as therapists or counselors can offer significant benefits in managing anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective, as it helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety.
Medication
In some serious cases, medications may be necessary to effectively manage anxiety symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best options for your situation.
Why Choose A Mission for Michael for Your Anxiety Treatment?
At A Mission for Michael (AMFM), we have facilities across California, Virginia, and Washington that can offer anxiety treatments that go beyond the usual symptom management:
- Comprehensive Care: We address not just symptoms but the root causes of anxiety through evidence-based treatments like CBT and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which are not commonly combined in typical treatment plans.
- Skilled Professionals: Our team consists of certified and experienced mental health experts who can give personalized care in individual and group settings.
- Accessible Services: With facilities in multiple states and options for same-day admissions, we strive to make starting your treatment journey as easy as possible.
- Insurance and Financial Support: We accept most major insurance providers and assist with verifying coverage to alleviate financial concerns. If we are not the right fit, we guide you to appropriate providers.
- Tailored Treatment Plans: Every treatment journey at AMFM is customized, starting from the initial free assessment to ongoing adjustments based on your progress.
Our goal is to empower you to lead a fulfilling and productive life. If you’re ready to take control of your anxiety, contact us today for a free consultation to learn how our unique, anxiety-informed therapy can make a difference.
Start your recovery journey with AMFM today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are common physical symptoms of anxiety?
Common physical symptoms due to anxiety’s “fight or flight” response include increased heart rate, digestive issues like nausea or diarrhea, muscle tension, sweating, and hot flashes.
How does anxiety affect the digestive system?
Anxiety impacts the digestive system, causing symptoms such as stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. The gut’s sensitivity to stress hormones disrupts normal functions.
What triggers skin reactions in people with anxiety?
Skin reactions like itchiness, rashes, or hives in anxious individuals are caused by stress-induced histamine release. Scratching or picking can worsen these symptoms.
What are effective techniques for managing panic attacks?
Effective management of panic attacks includes recognizing symptoms like a racing heart and shortness of breath. Techniques such as the “4-7-8” breathing method can stabilize the body’s response.
Why choose A Mission for Michael for anxiety treatment?
A Mission for Michael (AMFM) provides specialized anxiety treatment targeting root causes and symptom management through therapies like CBT and DBT. Our treatment plans are personalized to empower patients towards fulfilling lives.
