Last week, I found myself in a trigger situation. A disagreement over the phone and email with some extended family set off a chain reaction of anxiety that I know all too well. I’ve battled anxiety for years, but recently I’ve been managing it relatively well. I’ve learned to thwart panic attacks before they engulf me, and I’ve made self-care a priority, while choosing activities that align with my temperament and sensitivity to overstimulation.
During last week’s episode, I observed how my body reacted to the surge of anxiety. First came the racing heart—thumping loudly like a drum in my ears. Then the sweating and the sensation that my heart was forcing its way up my throat. Breathing became shallow and strained. Before long, I was grappling with my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which flares up under stress, leading to some less-than-pleasant bathroom trips.
Even after the initial panic subsided, it took nearly a week for me to feel like myself again. My muscles felt achy, I was parched, and it took days for my digestive system to calm down. Three days post-panic attack, I was hit with a migraine that came with an aura. Oh, and let’s not forget the insomnia, which did wonders for my ability to relax and feel better.
When experiencing anxiety or a panic attack, it’s easy to focus solely on the fear or the trigger that set it off. We often overlook the significant impact it has on our physical health. According to WebMD, excessive worry activates our body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol. These hormones can cause a slew of unpleasant symptoms including rapid heartbeat, headaches, trembling, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. Over time, these stress responses can lead to severe health issues, such as a weakened immune system, short-term memory loss, and even heart disease. And for those of us with anxiety, this just adds to our worries.
With a clearer perspective on how anxiety affects my body, I feel grateful that such episodes have become less frequent for me. However, I’ve also resolved to avoid situations that could provoke such intense reactions whenever possible. Living with anxiety is a lifelong challenge, and I’m committed to managing it effectively.
For me, that includes regular exercise, meditation, therapy, and prescribed medication. These elements are non-negotiable and vital to my well-being, just like eating or paying rent.
I understand that confronting anxiety can feel daunting. One of its cruelest tricks is convincing you that there’s no hope, whispering that you’re trapped and nothing can liberate you from its grasp. You may find yourself panicking about the panic. But remember, that’s just the anxiety speaking; it doesn’t define you. You are not your anxiety; you are a person who deals with an anxiety disorder.
Everyone deserves to feel better, and there are always options available to help manage symptoms—be it therapy, medication, or other solutions. Professionals are out there ready to support you in finding the right approach for your needs.
Please take your mental health seriously. Anxiety can be nature’s alarm, signaling that something is off and you shouldn’t feel unwell on a daily basis. Ignoring it can lead to real consequences, and seeking help is not selfish.
So, prioritize your mental health. Make that appointment, reach out for support, and don’t procrastinate. Once you start feeling better, you’ll wish you had sought help sooner.
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Summary
Anxiety and panic disorders can wreak havoc on both mental and physical health. It’s crucial to recognize the bodily symptoms that accompany anxiety and take proactive steps to manage them. Regular self-care practices, seeking professional assistance, and understanding that you are not defined by your anxiety can lead to a healthier, more balanced life. Prioritize your mental health and seek help without delay.