how anxiety affects the body

HOW ANXIETY AFFECTS THE BODY

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress; it alerts us to dangers and reminds us to stay attentive. However, anxiety that differs from normal feelings of nervousness can affect our job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships. According to the Barlow, D. H. (2002), anxiety is an uncontrollable, unpleasant
and persistent state of negative affect characterized by apprehensive anticipation of unpredictable and unavoidable future danger. This negative affect is often accompanied with symptoms of tension.

How does anxiety affect our bodies?

Anxiety can manifest in our body in a number of ways. According to Patriquin and Mathew (2017) symptoms of anxiety include the following:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Feeling restless
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Muscle tension
• Being easily fatigued
• Excessive worry

How to cope with anxiety?

The next time you are feeling anxious, try of these self-management strategies found to promote personal recovery and symptoms reduction (Villagi, et. al, 2015).

• Surrounding yourself with people who make you feel better.

Being around positive people can mitigate the effects of stress and help alleviate anxiety.

• Taking stock of your progress

Coping with anxiety is not easy, and it is important to recognize what helps you cope to create new habits and create a routine.

• Prioritize sleep

Sleep deprivation can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety, it is important to have a regular sleeping schedule.

• Stay physically active

Regular exercise can improve our mood and help us stay healthy.

• Relaxation techniques

Techniques such as meditation and yoga can help with stress reduction, which can help reduce
anxiety.

Anxiety can often feel like a roadblock that prevents us from leading normal lives. By understanding our symptoms and finding coping strategies to use when feeling overwhelmed, we can manage our anxiety and reduce our stress.






References:
Barlow, D. H. (2002). Anxiety and its disorders: The nature and treatment of anxiety and panic (2nd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.
Patriquin MA, Mathew SJ. (2017). The Neurobiological Mechanisms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Chronic Stress. Chronic Stress. doi:10.1177/2470547017703993
Villaggi B, Provencher H, Coulombe S, et al. (2015). Self-Management Strategies in Recovery From Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Global Qualitative Nursing

Ariana hernadez

Student Counselor at Sul Ross State University. Ariana enjoys working with adults and teens for a variety of reasons. Please check her out on our clinicians page.