4 Signs You May Have Anxiety

How do you know if you are one of the 40 million adults who may suffer from anxiety in the US?  And what to do if you show these signs of anxiety? Most of us experience anxiety at one point in our lives.  Perhaps it’s before an interview or before a “big day.” This is normal stress and to be expected. Anxiety disorders go beyond the normal jitters.

For years, I had suffered for years from worry and sleepless nights. Then, I rediscovered meditation and Guided Imagery that has helped me live with more ease.  That’s why I began teaching meditation and Guided Imagery and other tools because these helped me release the worry.

I know there may be others who want relief, as well.  Let’s explore some of the signs of anxiety, and then talk about better ways to cope.

1. Poor Sleep

Most people who have generalized anxiety disorder also suffer from poor sleep patterns.  If you have difficulty getting or staying asleep on a regular basis, then this could be signs of anxiety. If you are constantly worried about everything then it could be a sign of Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

2. Constant State of Fear

Fear of heights, fear of flying, many of us feel these, but if it’s getting in the way of you living a normal life, like leaving your house, then this is probably an anxiety disorder.  Sometimes this fear takes over leading to nausea, headaches, stomach cramps, or all over tension in our stomach or throat.

3. Compulsive Behaviors (OCD)

Obsessive compulsive disorders fall into extreme rituals and a sign of anxiety.  This can include overthinking or repetitive cleaning actions. Once these actions start to interfere with daily life you may find relief through treatment.

4. Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is more common than you think.  If you are regularly feeling self-conscious going out, especially with close friends, your anxiety is getting in the way of living a more satisfying social life.

What Are Treatment Options?

The most important thing to know is that you do not have to suffer in silence.  For one thing, being in a constant state of anxiety raises your cortisol levels, which can lead to weight gain, brain fog, and stress-related illnesses.  Treatment varies for Generalized Anxiety Disorder.  You may need to see a doctor to be prescribed medicine that may help you relax or sleep, and possibly combine this with talk therapy.  There are also natural supplements and homeopathic remedies that may help.

Learning to meditate and using Guided Imagery can be extremely helpful. That’s what has helped me the most.   In fact, hundreds of studies point out that being in a deep meditative state calms the fear and flight part of the brain and over time rewires the brain for more calm.  Learning to breathe in deeply and letting it out slowly, sends a signal to the body through the parasympathetic nervous system to be calm.

I have two helpful Guided Imagery programs for anxiety:  Embrace Love Release Fear and Stress Buster.  There’s also Blissful Sleep.  Private coaching and learning other stress-relieving tools like Emotional Freedom Technique or Tapping may also be helpful.  Check out my services, or find another holistic coach, therapist, or doctor.  The most important thing is to feel better.

You deserve to lead a fulfilling life.  There’s a better way to live than living in constant anxiety and stress.  Your family will love the change in you and so will you.

Wishing you peace!