Ever felt butterflies in your stomach before an exam or a big game? Your heart speeds up, and your palms might get all sweaty. It’s a common thing – everyone experiences it at some point! Interestingly, people in the famous New York City know this feeling well.
According to reports, this state has around 31.4% of adults struggling with depressive disorder or anxiety.
But did you know that being anxious often can really impact your health, and not just mentally? Yes! It can lead to a sore stomach, tight muscles, and even trouble breathing.
So, now the question is- why does this happen, and how do we deal with it? Are you curious to know the same? Keep on reading!
How Does Anxiety Impacts Your Body?
Your Brain and Nerves
Generally, when you feel anxious, your brain thinks something scary is about to happen. It triggers what’s known as the “fight-or-flight” mode. This is your body’s way of getting ready to face danger or run away from it.
It’s quite useful when there’s a real threat, as you can take appropriate steps to deal with the situation. But when you’re just worried or overthinking, this reaction can make you feel extra stressed for no good reason.
Your Hormones
When you are nervous, your body releases stress hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones lead to symptoms like your heart racing and pump you up with energy.
However, too much of this “energy boost” over time can really tire your body out. It drains you mentally, physically, and even emotionally, making it difficult to even get out of bed.
The Toll on Your Systems
Apart from your brain and hormones, these disorders can adversely affect your entire body. As shocking as it may sound, it is indeed true. Here’s how:
- Cardiovascular (Heart Health) – Medically speaking, due to stress, your heart rate increases and your blood vessels narrow, temporarily boosting blood pressure. Over time, this leads to high blood pressure, heart diseases, stroke, irregular heart rhythms, and much more.
- Respiratory (Lung Health) – When you are worried about something, you tend to breathe faster and more shallowly. However, as this is not a normal behavior for the body, you tend to feel uncomfortable, making you feel short of breath or like you can’t get enough air.
On top of this, if you are already struggling with any respiratory issues like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), stress or anxiety worsens this condition.
How to Manage Anxiety Disorder?
While it may feel like your life is on the verge of falling apart, you must not let hope die on you. Remind yourself that there are solutions to make everything better. Here’s how:
Counseling
Talking with a local counselor or therapist can do wonders when you are struggling. This is especially true in high-stress areas like New York City. Your nyc anxiety therapists can help understand the triggers leading to anxiety and offer appropriate solutions. From rational emotive behavioral therapy to cognitive behavioral therapy, they can suggest the right treatment.
Not to mention, they’ll guide you about breathing exercises, thought-challenging methods, and gradual steps to face fears head-on. So, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Medication
In some cases, your doctor might suggest medication to curb anxiety. These meds help in balancing chemicals in your brain, easing symptoms of anxiety. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers are common types doctors may prescribe.
Nevertheless, it is important to have an open conversation with your doctor. They’ll work with you to find the right medication, adjust dosages, and monitor side effects to ensure the best outcome. Remember, medication can be highly effective, but it’s part of a broader treatment plan that might include therapy and lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle Changes
Making some tweaks in your daily life can also help you manage anxiety better. Here are a few tips:
- Stay Active– Exercise tends to release feel-good chemicals in your brain. This helps you take your mind off the things you are worried about while keeping your physical health in check.
- Eat Healthy– It is generally said that foods that are good for your body are also good for your mind. So, aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. It’ll help balance your mood and give you steady energy throughout the day.
- Take Time to Relax– Doing things you enjoy, such as dancing, painting, or reading books, can help you stay calm. Also, try deep breathing or meditation to keep stress in check.
Wrap Up
Anxiety can make your body feel awful. But it’s important to know you’re not alone. Doctors and therapists can help you learn to manage anxiety and feel better, both physically and mentally. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay, and at the same time, it is perfectly fine to ask for help when you need it.
