In our modern world, it’s easy to feel exhausted. We not only have to contend with the stresses of work and family but also the toll that being glued to our screens takes on our bodies. It’s incredibly hard to switch our brains off, soon, you can feel mentally and physically drained. Some people also have to grapple with anxiety brought on by trauma from their past.
All of these factors are enough to wear anybody out. Is your fatigue also a symptom of anxiety? The 7 signs below may make it easier to identify.
1. Inability To Shut Off
When you’re exhausted at the end of a busy week you’ll want to recharge, but you find it difficult to do so. It may be because anxiety won’t let you.
Anxiety was a useful tool for our prehistoric ancestors. It triggered a fight or flight response in them when they sensed danger. This is still deeply rooted in our neurological responses. Even if you aren’t running from a saber-toothed tiger, any anxiety fills you with similar adrenaline, keeping you alert even when you want to rest.
Anxiety also makes it difficult to shut off troubling thoughts. Your brain is like a scratched record, playing the day on a loop and searching for remarks or behavior you regret, or incomplete tasks.
2. Feeling Very Emotional
An inability to shut off takes a toll on your brain. You may feel unable to think clearly or concentrate. You may also find it harder to regulate your emotions. It may be that you feel edgy, lose your temper easily, or even experience panic attacks.
3. Insomnia
This can be particularly frustrating, especially when you reach the end of the day and feel like crashing into bed.
If you find yourself waking up frequently in the night with your worries at the forefront of your mind, anxiety may be the cause. Even when you’re exhausted, stress hormones can interfere with your sleep cycle, keeping you alert.
4. Stomach Issues
Anxiety doesn’t just affect the mind but the body too. Stomach problems are a common problem for people struggling with anxiety.
You may experience tension in your stomach when you’re anxious, or even feel nauseous. You may also experience a loss of appetite which can lead to nutritional imbalances.
5. Aches & Pains
It’s no surprise that anxiety cranks up the nervous tension in our bodies. If you’re in a state of constant alert, you could be tensing the muscles in your shoulders and legs or clenching your teeth without even realizing it.
Our muscles aren’t supposed to be held in constant tension. Thus, this leads to aches and pains.
6. Social Withdrawal
When you’re feeling anxious you may not feel like your normal self. You may be slow to engage in activities you enjoy or to spend time with family and friends. Or, your anxiety may make you too nervous to leave the comfort of your home.
If you find yourself feeling isolated and repeatedly making excuses to avoid social interactions, then it may be a sign of unaddressed anxiety.
7. Other Physical Signs
There are also other physical signs of anxiety to look out for. These include:
- Sweating
- Trembling, shaky voice
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations.
Some of these signs can be alarming and it’s a good idea to keep a journal to monitor these symptoms. This is something you can show to a doctor to give them an understanding of your symptoms.
When you’re feeling worn out and anxious, it may feel like control and relaxation are out of reach. Don’t continue to suffer, seek professional help. I can help you uncover the root of your anxiety, and give you tools to cope well. Please read more about anxiety treatment and reach out for a confidential consultation soon.
