Fast heartbeat. Difficulty in breathing gains space in seconds. Bad thoughts invade without asking for permission. Everyone has already had this feeling that something bad can happen at some point in their life. It can be a normal response to many stressful situations. No need to worry too much about it, but hold on, when the reaction is intense and starts to repeat constantly, now, that’s a red flag: anxiety is becoming a disease.
10 Physical effects of anxiety
- Dry mouth and/or difficulty swallowing
- Nightmares
- Difficulty getting to and staying asleep
- Poor concentration
- Muscle tension and headaches
- Rapid heart rate and breathing
- Sweating or trembling
- Diarrhoea
- A flare-up of another health problem or illness (for example, dermatitis, asthma)
- Sexual problems, such as not having any sexual feelings or no interest in sex.
6 common ways anxiety can affect your behaviour and feelings*
- Irritability or always being in a bad mood
- Having a strong urge to avoid situations that could trigger your anxiety
- Worry or always feeling that something bad is about to happen
- Asking a lot of needless questions and needing constant reassurance
- Being a perfectionist
- Being pessimistic and focusing on what may go wrong in any given situation.
You Are Not Alone
Guess what? You are not alone! According to the World Health Organization Report “Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders”, launched in 2017, the total estimated number of people living with anxiety disorders in the world is 264 million.
From fear and apprehension to physical symptoms. That’s right! The thought is so powerful that the body responds. In an episode of anxiety, substances such as norepinephrine and cortisol can be released and when it happens increase the blood pressure and heart rate goes up.
Psychologist Thomaz Lopes, who have been living in Dublin since 2015 and hold a Masters Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis, explain that is important look for a professional help when it is impossible manage the emotions and the physical symptoms are intense. You can watch the interview here, in our website.
(Source: HSE.ie, WHO and psychologist Thomaz Lopes )
