Understanding Anxiety Symptoms: What Your Body Is Telling You

Anxiety is more than just feeling worried or stressed—it's a complex condition that affects both your mind and body. Understanding how anxiety manifests can help you recognize when you might need support.

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety triggers your body's "fight or flight" response, leading to various physical symptoms:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Sweating, especially palms
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Stomach upset or nausea
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Muscle tension
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Emotional and Mental Symptoms

• Persistent worry that feels uncontrollable
• Feeling on edge or restless
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Fear of the worst happening
• Feeling detached from reality
• Sleep problems—trouble falling or staying asleep

When Anxiety Becomes a Disorder

Everyone feels anxious sometimes. But when anxiety interferes with daily life for weeks or months, it may be an anxiety disorder. Signs include:

• Avoiding situations due to fear
• Anxiety affecting work, relationships, or school
• Physical symptoms with no medical explanation
• Panic attacks
• Constant worry that feels impossible to control

Getting Help

Anxiety is highly treatable. Treatment options include therapy (especially cognitive behavioral therapy), medication, lifestyle changes, and self-help strategies. The first step is talking to a healthcare provider about your symptoms.