Occasionally feeling anxious is a normal part of life. For some, though, anxiety becomes more frequent and severe, interfering with daily activities. Common signs and symptoms include:
Feeling nervous, restless or tense
Having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom
Having an increased heart rate
Breathing rapidly (hyperventilation)
Sweating
Trembling
Feeling weak or tired
Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry
Having trouble sleeping
Experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) problems
Having difficulty controlling worry
Having the urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety
It’s important to learn more about what may be causing your symptoms. There can be underlying medical reasons causing your anxiety, so it’s important to first talk with your medical provider. They may order tests to rule out medical problems, or they may find your anxiety is a side effect of medication. Otherwise, the causes of anxiety disorders aren't fully understood. Risk factors can include trauma or stress. Certain personality types may be more prone to develop anxiety disorders, or anxiety can run in families.
There is a wide range of treatment options depending on what is causing your anxiety. Options can include medication, yet it can also be very helpful to explore other adjunctive treatments such as mental health therapy, life or health coaching, essential oils, acupuncture, reflexology, nutrition and dietary supplements. Consider yoga, meditation, or HeartMath to learn natural ways to manage stress and help with relaxation. Every client is unique, and experimenting with these options will help you to know which ones are right for you. You deserve a life free of severe anxiety.
~Nicole Hutchison, PT, CSCS, Health Coach, Integrative Nutrition Coach
References:
Mayoclinic.org
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