Individuals with anxiety, whether chronic or acute, describe it as an exhausting and frustrating condition. It's frustrating because they recognize it as a misfiring of brain signals, which theoretically shouldn't be difficult to manage; it's exhausting because the relentless, intrusive thoughts deplete energy that could be better spent on more productive activities.
As with many mental disorders, anxiety is essentially a result of abnormal chemical processes in the brain. Psychologists and other health professionals are still puzzled by the exact causes of anxiety, a confusion that also affects those who live with the persistent presence of anxiety.
Moreover, there are signs of chronic anxiety that should not be overlooked. We will also explore methods that may assist individuals coping with these symptoms.
Here are eight signs of anxiety that should not be ignored.
1. MUSCLE PAIN
2. HEADACHES
3. FATIGUE
Chronic anxiety, or any form of it, is an extremely stressful condition. The stress from anxiety can debilitate the adrenal glands, which are crucial for maintaining the body's equilibrium. Weakened adrenal glands often lead to fatigue.
4. CRAVING SUGARY OR STARCHY FOODS
Sugar acts somewhat like an opiate, initially inducing a sense of calm before leading to a crash. It is not only inflammatory but also a factor in weight gain. Individuals with chronic anxiety often report an instinctive desire for sugary or starchy foods during times of distress.
5. DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS
There is a direct correlation between chronic anxiety and digestive issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). When the brain is distressed, the digestive system usually follows suit. Interestingly, 80 to 90 percent of serotonin, the brain's "calming" neurotransmitter, is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to both poor digestion and suboptimal serotonin production.
6. MOODINESS AND IRRITABILITY
When our brain is overwhelmed with anxious thoughts, our patience for tasks requiring attention diminishes. This is counterproductive; it's far more beneficial to concentrate on constructive activities rather than letting anxiety take control. Yet, for individuals with chronic anxiety, the instinctive response is often to "snap" or "lash out" when faced with demands for attention.
7. SLEEPING PROBLEMS
It's quite clear that when the brain is overactive, achieving relaxation can be challenging. Consequently, sleep becomes difficult as well. It's typical for someone with chronic anxiety to feel "exhausted in body, but restless in mind," meaning they are eager for deep sleep, but their brain resists.
8. FOCUS/CONCENTRATION ISSUES
As mentioned before, difficulty in focusing or concentrating is a very common consequence of anxiety. The chemical alterations in the brain during anxiety episodes leave little capacity for focused attention.
Despite the feelings of helplessness experienced by those with anxiety, it is possible to manage the condition. Certain practices and behaviors can at least mitigate the more severe symptoms of anxiety.
QUICK, USEFUL TIPS FOR MANAGING CHRONIC (OR GENERAL) ANXIETY:
- Eat properly – a balanced diet is an effective counter to anxiety.
- Exercise – initiating an exercise routine may be tough, but it's highly beneficial for alleviating anxiety symptoms.
- Keep a schedule – anxiety can disrupt organization, so writing tasks down and maintaining a schedule can aid in accomplishing them.
- Manage stress – numerous free resources are available online (and in libraries) for learning anxiety management skills. Meditation and mindfulness are especially beneficial.
- Sleep – sufficient sleep is crucial for everyone, particularly for those with chronic anxiety. Natural supplements, such as melatonin, can greatly assist in initiating sleep.
