Anxiety that manifests in the body is known as somatic anxiety and this anxiety can look different from person to person. A few examples include experiencing headaches, tense shoulders, abdominal pain, pounding heartbeat, dizziness, insomnia, sweating, shortness of breath and pins and needles felt in the body. These symptoms are your body’s way of responding and sending you signals of the stress you may be experiencing. Anxiety impacts all systems of the body including the musculoskeletal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous and reproductive system.

Anxiety is the natural alarm system that keeps you safe. As anxiety arises, this can cause a “fight, flight or freeze” response from your body.

Breaking Down Anxiety Into Parts 

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by the concern and worry over various parts in life such as academics, friendships and family. This ongoing worry can cause symptoms like muscle tension, difficulties sleeping, concentrating and ultimately alter how an individual functions on a daily basis.

Social Anxiety Disorder is characterized by an underlying fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations therefore making public speaking or social interactions extremely stressful and can lead to an avoidance of social situations. A few physical symptoms that may appear include sweating, nausea or shaking during social events.

Specific Phobias are described as having strong fears of objects or situations including but not limited to heights, animals, needles or flying. This fear can be so strong that interferes with activities and individuals may avoid places or events because of this underlying fear.