Physical symptoms of stress and anxiety

Physical symptoms of stress and anxiety

People often experience a general state of worry because fear is a natural reaction to the problem of life. It helps a face in a challenging situation at the office, studying carefully for a test and concentrating on making an important decision. However, when a fear interferes with a person's daily activities as well as their relationships and job, it is considered a disability.

Anxiety disorder can be divided into five main types.

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is excessive, unrealistic worry and tension about non-specific life events, goals, and situations.

2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thinking and repetitive behavior.

3. Panic attacks are repeated and unexpected bouts of intense fear.

4. Social anxiety disorder is fear of social situations. People with social phobia are afraid of being watched and judged by others.

5. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur when exposed to a traumatic event that poses a risk of injury or death.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the type of anxiety disorder. However, common symptoms include:

Heart palpitations, muscle tension, trouble falling or falling asleep, getting startled easily, irritability, shaking, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, headache, back pain, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, cold or sweaty hands and/or feet, shortness of breath, fatigue.

Treatment

Anxiety can be treated with medication, psychotherapy, or both.

Medications do not cure anxiety disorders, but they can keep them under control while the person receives psychotherapy. Different types of medications such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta blockers are used to treat anxiety disorders.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are two effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people change the thought patterns that cause their anxiety.

Self-help

In some cases, this fear is short-lived or the cause is identified and can be eliminated or avoided. There are various exercises and actions recommended to deal with this type of anxiety:

Exercise – Exercise is a natural stress buster and anxiety reliever.

Talk to a supportive person.

Relaxation techniques – Relaxation can reduce anxiety and increase feelings of relaxation and emotional well-being.

Learn to replace “negative self-talk” with “self-talk management.”

Learn to manage stress in your life.

Eat healthy. Avoid fatty, sugary and processed foods. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins in your diet.

Make sleep a priority. Do what you can to ensure you get enough quality sleep.

Alternative practitioner psychotherapy

The best place to find alternative practitioners psychotherapy is in our free alternative practitioner directory. To view all alternative psychotherapy practitioners, please click here.