Anxiety is prevalent—extremely prevalent. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders rank as the most widespread mental health issues in the United States, affecting over 18% of adults. I’m one of the 40 million grappling with this challenge. For years, I have experienced overwhelming feelings of fear, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts, alongside episodes of panic. Just last week, I had a breakdown in a grocery store, trembling and sweating in the dairy aisle, surrounded by cheese and bread. However, anxiety encompasses more than just restlessness, irritability, hyper-vigilance, and excessive worry. Not every panic attack resembles a dramatic scene from a movie with someone breathing into a paper bag. Some of the most prevalent signs and behaviors associated with anxiety are often overlooked.
Here are six unexpected signs and symptoms of anxiety:
Skin Picking, or Dermatillomania
One of the most common yet least discussed signs of anxiety is skin picking, known as dermatillomania. This condition reportedly affects one in 20 individuals. The National Health Service describes dermatillomania, or excoriation disorder, as an uncontrollable urge to pick at one’s skin. I can personally relate, as I often obsessively pick my lips and the skin on my feet, sometimes causing bleeding. It turns out I’m not alone in this. Alex, a parent from New Jersey, shares that his skin-picking habit intensifies during stressful times. Meanwhile, Lisa, a mother of two, finds herself picking her cuticles while her daughter engages in similar behaviors. Both individuals express that this activity helps them ground themselves, distracting from the tumultuous thoughts and sensations they experience.
Digestive Issues and Indigestion
Anxiety can trigger a multitude of gastrointestinal problems, ranging from nausea and vomiting to diarrhea and indigestion. As reported by Very Well Mind, these digestive disturbances are quite common. Fortunately, there are ways to manage these symptoms through dietary adjustments, breathing exercises, physical activity, and over-the-counter medications to soothe an anxious stomach.
Confusion
Anxiety can lead to forgetfulness, confusion, and challenges with concentration. Jamie, a college student in New York, recounts that during stressful moments, focusing becomes a struggle, even affecting her ability to drive. She experiences a feeling of disconnection between her thoughts and actions. I can relate to this sensation; when extremely anxious, I often feel as if I’m floating, losing track of time and reality. Grounding techniques, such as exercise, journaling to release anxious thoughts, and engaging in reality-based exercises—like running water over your hands—can aid in overcoming confusion.
Heart Irregularities
Do you ever experience your heart racing or pounding as if it’s going to burst from your chest? If so, you’ve likely encountered anxiety or stress-induced heart irregularities. While skipped heartbeats and palpitations are common, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if these sensations persist.
Physical Numbness or Tingling
Anxiety can manifest as numbness in various ways, including loss of sensation in hands and limbs or that familiar “pins and needles” sensation. According to Healthline, these symptoms occur when the body enters fight-or-flight mode or during hyperventilation.
Brain Zaps
Brain zaps, or brain shivers, are often linked to antidepressant withdrawal, but some individuals experience them due to stress or anxiety. These sensations feel like electric shocks to the brain or head, described by the Anxiety Centre as sudden jolts or shivers.
There are countless other anxiety-related habits and symptoms not covered here. If you are navigating anxiety, remember that support and hope are available—you don’t have to endure this alone. For more information on home insemination, you can check out this other blog post. Additionally, if you’re seeking resources on pregnancy and home insemination, consider visiting this excellent resource.
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Summary:
Anxiety manifests in various unexpected ways, including skin picking, digestive issues, confusion, heart irregularities, physical numbness, and brain zaps. These symptoms can impact daily life and well-being. Understanding these signs can foster awareness and encourage individuals to seek help. Remember, support is available, and you are not alone in your journey with anxiety.
Keyphrase: unexpected signs of anxiety
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