I’m so anxious, it hurts. Anxiety is a mental health disorder that affects the mind, the body, and the spirit. People who live with a clinical diagnosis of anxiety live with more than just a chronic sense of worry or panic. Anxiety disorders can include obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can also cause anxiety as a symptom. With these conditions comes a variety of physical experiences as the body both manifests and processes high levels of anxiety.
Anxiety is a misfiring in the brain. The brain’s inherent fight-or-flight response made possibly by the activity of the amygdala goes ‘haywire’ and starts responding to itself. Experiencing fear and anxiety creates more fear and anxiety- thus the cycle continues. As a result, the stress hormones created by the survival response continue to produce and circulate. Stagnant adrenaline and cortisol in the body can cause pain, discomfort, and agitation. Anxiety pain is something many people living with anxiety experience and have difficulty coping with, as well as difficulty explaining to other people.
If you notice any of these symptoms, someone you love with anxiety might be struggling with anxiety pain and need extra support.
Looking angry, frustrated, or disgruntled might be the result of intense physical painSpending extra time in bed or sleeping to try and cope with the pain and accompanying thoughtsAppearing closed-mouthed during conversation by clenching the jaw or having a scowl on the faceItching, scratching, or rubbing the body can be a sign of numbness and tingling caused by anxietyChronically cracking or popping joints in the neck, fingers, back, or other areas of the body is a way many with anxiety release the tension in their bodyAvoiding food due to severe stomach cramps, feeling like the throat is closing, or nauseaTaking multiple trips to the restroom to wash the hands or take a shower could indicate needing hot water, or cold water, to soothe physical painsStretching, moving, or curling up are ways to try and compensate for growing physical pain and discomfort
Everyone has a story which brings them to treatment. When you arrive at The Guest House Ocala, you, and your story, are welcomed with open, loving arms. Our unique residential treatment programs offer concierge style service, providing customized healing for recovery from trauma and related addiction or mental health issues. Call us today for information: 1-855-483-7800