What Does Anxiety Feel Like?

Anxiety is a serious issue that should not be overlooked. Its symptoms tend to affect our day-to-day well-being. What does anxiety feel like inside? A person suffering from anxiety can experience serious symptoms, including rapid heart rate, increased sweating, twitching, lethargy, restlessness, etc. If the mental issue is not treated timely, it can impact the overall well-being and can pave the way for other serious issues.   

Cadabam’s Hospitals is one of the well-reckoned hospitals in India that treat a wide range of psychiatric and behavioural health issues. We have been providing evidence-based, solution-oriented treatment plans for over three decades to provide quality and effective care services to patients dealing with mental illnesses. For more information, you can contact us at +91 97414 76476 or email us at info@cadabamshospitals.com.

What Does Anxiety Feel Like Inside?

Ever felt your mind spiral out of control the moment you wake up, all because of a single text or thought? You're not alone.

Waking up in the morning with a sudden jerk, you wonder, “Did I miss the alarm?” You check your phone twice, maybe three times, just to be sure of the time. And then you see it—a text message from your boss: “Meet me when you come in.”

Your mind starts racing, thinking about the day ahead. “Should I go to work and face my boss? Did I complete my task yesterday? What if I didn’t? Did I double-check before leaving work?”

The thoughts spiral further: “What if he’s going to fire me? What will I do next? Do I have enough savings to survive? What if I can’t find another job? Who will I ask for help? I won’t have money to pay rent, buy essentials, or even eat. What will I do? I’m doomed.”

This inner dialogue can feel overwhelming, but it's a familiar experience for many dealing with anxiety.

The Overwhelming Impact of Sudden Events

One of the scariest things for an individual suffering from an anxiety disorder is sudden, unsure events. These sudden events need not be big events; even small incidents can trigger anxiety. A stranger walking up to you and talking, the teacher suddenly taking your name, being asked a question you do not know the answer to, walking past a group of people and as soon as you pass them, hearing them laugh anything.

How Uncertainty Fuels Anxiety

It is not just the sudden events that trigger anxiety; it is the uncertainty that comes along with it. Uncertainty of what is going to happen next. It is this uncertainty that puts their mind on a loop of unending negative thoughts which keep going on and on. 

Along with that, your body too reacts to the whole situation. 

Awareness and the Challenge of Losing Control

Another factor that makes this disorder challenging is that the individual suffering is very much aware that whatever is going on with them is not “normal.” They realise that they shouldn’t be thinking or reacting that way, but everything seems out of control.  This heightened awareness is a significant part of what anxiety feels like as individuals struggle with the disconnect between their thoughts and actions. This feeling of not being in control makes them avoid certain triggering situations, places, and objects and repeat checking.

Signs And Symptoms Of Anxiety

Doctors assess signs and symptoms to understand what anxiety feels like for an individual. Generally, patients with anxiety experience the following signs and symptoms – 

• Excessive worrying 
• Feeling agitated
• Restlessness 
• Fatigue 
• Lack of concentration 
• Irritability 
• Tense muscles
• Difficulty in falling asleep
• Frequently waking up at night
• Panic attacks
• Social withdrawal 
• Irrational fear 

Causes of Anxiety

Anxiety can arise from a combination of factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental influences. Here are some common causes:

• Genetic Factors: A family history of anxiety or other mental health disorders can increase susceptibility.
• Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin or dopamine, may contribute to anxiety symptoms.
• Stressful Life Events: Situations like financial difficulties, the loss of a loved one, or trauma can trigger anxiety.
• Personality Traits: Being overly self-critical, shy, or a perfectionist can make individuals more prone to anxiety.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Ongoing physical illnesses, such as heart disease or thyroid issues, can exacerbate anxiety.
• Substance Use: Excessive use of alcohol, caffeine, or recreational drugs can heighten anxious feelings.
• Childhood Experiences: Neglect, abuse, or early loss can leave a lasting impact, increasing vulnerability to anxiety later in life.

Risk Factors of Anxiety

Several factors can contribute to the development of anxiety, making individuals more susceptible to its symptoms. Here are some key risk factors:

• Family history of anxiety disorders.
• Past trauma or abuse.
• Chronic stress or significant life changes.
• Personality traits like shyness or perfectionism.
• Substance use, including alcohol and caffeine.
• Physical health conditions or hormonal imbalances.

Recognising these factors provides insight into what anxiety feels like and helps identify triggers.

How Is Anxiety Diagnosed?

Your primary care doctor will first check whether or not you have any underlying medical condition that needs to be treated. But in case of severe anxiety, you will need assistance from a psychiatrist who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. To diagnose the issue, the doctor will perform a psychological evaluation where he or she will ask you a couple of questions and assess your symptoms.

What Are The Treatment Options For Anxiety?

Depending on the severity and the overall health condition, the doctors formulate a personalised treatment plan for you. Some of the prominent treatment options include – 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is also reckoned as psychological counselling or talk therapy. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is the most effective type of psychotherapy to treat anxiety disorders. It focuses on improving the symptoms and helping patients slowly get back to activities that patients have been avoiding because of anxiety. 

Medications

Various forms of medications are used to help in relieving symptoms based on the type of anxiety. Generally, antidepressants are used to treat this form of the disorder. In some cases, you may also be prescribed beta-blockers or sedatives. 

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction involves incorporating mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and body scans into daily routines. These practices help individuals stay present, manage stress more effectively, and reduce negative thought patterns that often fuel anxiety. Over time, MBSR can enhance emotional resilience, improve focus, and foster a greater sense of inner calm and control over anxious feelings.

Support Groups

Joining anxiety support groups offers individuals a safe space to share their experiences, challenges, and progress with others who understand their struggles. These groups not only help participants learn effective coping strategies but also foster a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation. Through mutual support and encouragement, members often gain hope, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of their condition.

Lifestyle And Natural Remedies

This includes developing a healthy routine where you exercise regularly to reduce stress. Incorporate a healthy diet that includes food enriched with essential nutrition. Anxiety patients should also refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking. Additionally, maintaining good sleep hygiene is important—stick to a regular sleep schedule, avoid screens before bedtime, and create a calm, comfortable space to help you sleep better and ease anxiety.

Experience Proven Anxiety Treatment at Cadabam’s Hospitals

For three decades, Cadabam’s Hospitals has been treating patients suffering from mental illnesses. Our experienced team of psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, physicians, and therapists build specialised care plans for each patient. With Cadabam’s Hospitals, you get comprehensive and holistic treatment for your anxiety issues. 

We also offer a safe, non-judgmental environment where patients feel heard, supported, and empowered to take control of their mental health. With state-of-the-art facilities and a compassionate approach, Cadabam’s has helped thousands of individuals understand what anxiety feels like and overcome its challenges to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Hospitals can help you with its team of specialised experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage their anxiety. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 97414 76476. You can even email us at info@cadabamshospitals.com.

FAQs

What are the types of anxiety?

Anxiety disorder can be categorised into the following groups – 

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder 
• Panic Disorder 
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder 
• Social phobia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Separation Anxiety Disorder 

What causes anxiety disorder?

Anxiety disorder can be triggered by multiple situations. For instance, loss of loved ones, worry about finances, work stress, etc., are some of the triggers of anxiety. Moreover, certain personality types are more vulnerable to anxiety disorder.

Why is it important to understand what anxiety feels like?

Understanding what anxiety feels like helps individuals recognise symptoms early and seek timely treatment. Awareness is crucial for managing anxiety effectively and improving overall mental health.

How can I reduce anxiety naturally?

Significant changes in lifestyle can help you in reducing the symptoms of anxiety to a considerable extent. Some of the things that you can do include -

• Getting proper sleep
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking 
• Avoiding alcohol
• Eating healthily 
• Meditating
• Avoiding caffeine

How can I explain what anxiety feels like to someone?

Anxiety feels like persistent worry, fear, or dread, even when there’s no apparent reason. It may also include physical symptoms like a pounding heart, sweating, or shortness of breath.