Physical Signs of Anxiety

What are the physical symptoms of anxiety?

When experiencing anxiety, there are various physical signs that may occur. In addition to constant worry, some of the most common symptoms include:

• Stomach problems
• Feeling tired, restless or finding it hard to concentrate
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• An unusual or racing heartbeat
• A churning feeling in your stomach
• Pins and needles
• Sweating or hot flushes
• Grinding your teeth, particularly at night
• Needing the toilet more or less often than usual

If you notice any of these symptoms and are unsure whether they are linked to anxiety, it’s advisable to speak with your GP. They can help identify the cause of your symptoms and offer support, particularly if they are affecting your daily life.

How Anxiety Can Affect Your Mind

Anxiety doesn’t only affect the body - it can also have a significant impact on your mental health. It can make you feel sad, isolated, or fearful. Some common emotional experiences include:

• A sense that time is either speeding up or slowing down
• The belief that something bad will happen if you stop worrying
• Fears of losing touch with reality
• A constant need for reassurance
• A low mood, which could develop into depression

Living with anxiety can be overwhelming, but there are things you can try to help manage the symptoms. Talking to someone you trust, writing in a diary, or practising breathing exercises might offer some relief.