Does anxiety invade your space?
My first recollection of anxiety began when I was in elementary school. Any time I prepared to answer a question in class, my heart would beat super fast. However, as soon as I started talking, the feeling would go away.
I later realized that my heart would beat fast because I was afraid that somehow I would say the wrong thing, but whenever I would actually talk, my nervous system would be at ease.
That’s how anxiety works.
Anxiety is the body’s way of responding to perceived danger or stress. Heavy emphasis on “perceived”. Sometimes, the actual danger does not happen. Sometimes, there are triggers, but anxiety can also occur with no real trigger or cause.
Heavy emphasis on “perceived”. Sometimes, the actual danger does not happen. Sometimes, there are triggers, but anxiety can also occur with no real trigger or cause.
Yes, I think everyone experiences anxiety in some way, but let’s talk about when it becomes overwhelming.
You may experience physical, mental, emotional, and social symptoms that cause you to consciously or unconsciously avoid everyday situations, including social interactions. Some symptoms of overwhelming anxiety include excessive worry, sleep difficulties, restlessness, concentration difficulties, racing heart, stomach issues, etc.
In a nutshell, anxiety can be exhausting, and it can cause you to live in fear and avoidance.
If this is something you experience, you are not alone. In fact, there are more people in the world who are impacted by anxiety than any other mental health challenge.
I promised myself that I would not take up too much of your time today, so please come back for Part 2. I want to offer you a few tips on how to manage your anxious thoughts.
Be kind to your mind!
As always, thank you for checking in with me.
Be kind to your mind!
Until you gift me with your presence again,
Dr. E
