When you hear the word anxiety, what symptoms do you think of? Racing thoughts, big fears, constantly worrying? That only scratches the surface.
Anxiety exists on a broad spectrum, and everyone’s experience with anxiety can look completely different from one another. Today, we’re diving into some of the more subtle ways anxiety can show up. So if you want to see some of those subtle ways, keep reading to find out more.
First of All, What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a complex combination of fear, dread, and uneasiness. It can show up constantly for some people, and very occasionally for others.
When anxious feelings show up in stressful moments, it can be a useful fight-or-flight tool. But when it sticks around and interferes with several life domains significantly, that’s when it becomes a disorder. And without proper treatment or coping techniques, an anxiety disorder can really interfere with your quality of life.
The Most Common Types of Anxiety
While anxiety itself is a completely normal feeling that nearly everyone experiences, anxiety disorders are much more complex. These are the three kinds of anxiety disorders that we most often see in people:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
GAD involves the persistent, uncontrollable thoughts and worries that we typically associate with anxiety. Typically, the thoughts are about everyday aspects of life, such as our health, family, or finances. GAD is the most common anxiety disorder.
Panic Disorder
This type of anxiety involves regular, uncontrollable panic attacks. With a panic disorder diagnosis, individuals feel fearful, uncomfortable, or distressed in unpredictable circumstances. Some people aren’t sure if they have had a panic attack or not. If you have had one, you know for sure that you have had one. They are far from pleasant and frequently result in a trip to the Emergency Room because you are having some type of medical episode.
Phobias
Phobias are associated with very specific objects, situations, or activities. While the trigger often poses no real danger, individuals with phobias experience an intense, persistent fear.
Different Ways Anxiety Can Show Up
The physical symptoms of anxiety are often the easiest to detect. Essentially, when our brain feels threatened, it activates our stress hormones, like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones often lead to sweating, trembling, increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and restlessness.
But while those are the most obvious signs, there are plenty of other, more discreet symptoms of anxiety, including:
- Frequently zoning out of your surroundings.
- Expectations of perfection to avoid disapproval.
- Insomnia or restlessness caused by racing thoughts.
- Unexplained irritability, frustrations, or a short temper.
- Fatigue that lasts all day, even without heavy exertion.
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating throughout the day.
- Repeatedly seeking reassurance from those around you.
- Persistent muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, or jaw.
- Indecisiveness caused by a fear of making the wrong choice.
- Digestive issues, including stomachaches, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.
Internal symptoms can be more difficult to pinpoint and diagnose properly. If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or someone you love, avoid self-diagnosing. The most effective way to overcome anxiety is by seeking the support of a professional.
Start Treating Anxiety Symptoms with Fort Worth Therapy
The most effective way to care for your mental health? Book regular appointments with a professional who specializes in anxiety counseling. This is the only guaranteed way to receive an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan for anxiety.
When you’re ready for your racing thoughts to slow down, reach out to our Fort Worth counselors.