7 anxiety symptoms that you should not ignore

Feelings of anxiety are part and parcel of normal life. You could be having financial concerns, perhaps a big crypto loss, a medical condition, a difficult spouse or boss or maybe you were treated unfairly. Such moments of unease, worry or fear are natural responses to stress. However, when anxiety starts to become omnipresent or overwhelming, it is important to seek assistance. Here are 7 signs to be mindful of:

1. Constant worry about everything

One moment you had a little bit of stress, and the next you know it has spiralled into constant and overpowering anxiety. You might find yourself worrying about everything from your work and the health of loved ones to everyday things like what you see on the news. You might have trouble controlling your thoughts and probably find it hard to relax. CBT and mindfulness exercises can help you manage your thoughts.

2. Physical manifestations

Has your anxiety activated your fight or flight response? Do you have physical symptoms in addition to feelings of nervousness, a sense of impending doom, increased heart rate, unusual sweating etc? Typical symptoms that start appearing along with heightened anxiety are headaches, muscle tension, gastrointestinal issues, rapid heartbeat and breathing difficulties. Being in a state of constant high alert can be exhausting and overwhelming and start affecting all areas of your life before you know it. Hypnotherapy can be a very effective tool in helping with the anxiety and physical manifestations if no clear medical cause is identified.

3. Avoidance patterns

Excessive anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviours, where people want to avoid any situation, place or thought that provokes anxiety. This could be a social event, flight, train, a certain person, doctors, dentists, or meetings. Maybe your safety behaviour is to not leave home in case you run into any of these situations. While avoidance may offer temporary relief, it ultimately reinforces the anxious belief in your brain that you can’t handle that fear. This affects self-confidence and increases your anxiety. A hypnotherapist might be able to help you face your fears in a safe and relaxed way.  

4. Sleep patterns

Increased anxiety can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling or staying asleep or even sleeping too much. Insomnia and restless nights can leave you feeling fatigued, irritable, and more susceptible to anxiety. Addressing sleep disturbances is crucial, as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.

5. Changes in appetite

A change in appetite can sometimes be hard for people to pin down. You might be comfort eating without consciously knowing what you are doing or you may be avoiding meals thinking you are just not hungry. Could it be your anxiety that is responsible for your over or undereating and for the fluctuation in your weight? Changes in appetite may further impact emotional distress and also start impacting your physical health if not addressed in time.

6. Relationship and work strain

Anxiety can strain personal relationships and workplace dynamics as it may affect your tolerance levels, your ability to communicate and to connect with people. Perhaps your anxiety is making it hard for you to be aware of the other person’s needs and respond in a way that feels authentic, perhaps your anxiety is making it hard for you to communicate what you need. A therapist can help you recognise how and why anxiety may be affecting your interactions and prevent further strain on your relationships and work performance.

7. Decline in performance

Are you worrying to the point that it is impairing your focus and concentration and affecting your performance? You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to meet deadlines or perform at your usual level of competence. Acknowledging these changes and their connection to anxiety is vital to prevent long-term setbacks in your professional or educational pursuits.

In addressing anxiety, various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), hypnotherapy and mindfulness practices can be beneficial. You don’t need to live like this. A qualified professional can help you manage your anxiety effectively and regain control over your life.