8 Possible Signs of Anxiety in Women

The signs of anxiety in women can interfere with everyday activities. Severe anxiety can lead to panic attacks, which can feel like having a heart attack. According to data reported at the National Institute of Mental Health, more women than men develop an anxiety disorder (23.4% compared to 14.3%). An estimated 31% of adults in the U.S. will experience an anxiety disorder at some point during their lifetime.

8 Signs of Anxiety in Women

Since some of the signs of anxiety in women can mimic heart attacks, consult with your physician if you experience any symptoms. It is better to rule out a physical condition. Anxiety can trigger the nervous system, and your body reacts with the fight-or-flight response.

Even if you are not in immediate danger but worried about the future, your body will respond to protect you from danger. These signs of anxiety in women are aggravating and can interfere with your work, school, and relationships.

The following is a list of the signs of anxiety in women you should know. Consult with a Christian counselor in Culver City to learn more and find out how to manage your anxiety.

Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations can feel like a fluttering in your chest. Some women experience chest tightness or heartburn with anxiety. Confirm with your doctor that you do not have a medical condition if you experience chest pain or heaviness. Once your doctor has confirmed your heart health, you can practice stress management tips to help calm your nervous system.

Rapid Breathing

We breathe rapidly and shallowly as our bodies prepare to run or fight. Unfortunately, this type of breathing also speeds up our heart rates. Try taking deep breaths throughout the day, especially if you feel a panic attack building. Inhale through your nose until you feel your lungs completely fill with air, hold for a few seconds, then slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat as necessary.

Excessive Sweating

Cortisol and adrenaline are responsible for sudden excessive sweating, which is part of the fight-or-flight response. Until you have your anxiety managed, you may want to use stronger antiperspirants and deodorants and wear lighter clothing or layers that you can peel off quickly. This is especially important if you struggle with hot flashes in menopause combined with anxiety. Stress management and counseling can help cope with this undesirable symptom.

Trembling

Cortisol and adrenaline are also responsible for trembling or shaking with anxiety. Your body prepares you for action, but you are left shaking like a leaf without actual danger. If trembling is bothersome, take a few minutes to practice relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or holding a few stretching poses, like child’s pose.

Feeling on Edge

Anxiety can cause restlessness, irritability, and on-edge feelings. Hormone fluctuations may also contribute to anxiety. To combat anxiety, seek calming activities you enjoy. For example, read a book for a few minutes, watch a sitcom, crochet, or listen to music. Exercise can also help by lowering cortisol and promoting feel-good chemicals like serotonin.

Trouble Focusing

Anxiety creates brain fog, making it difficult to think clearly. You may forget important details or lose items more often. You might feel confused at times, or your thoughts might race. Practice caring for your physical and mental health by exercising, eating healthy, and prioritizing sleep.

Sleep Problems

Anxiety interferes with sleep, which can worsen feelings of being on edge or forgetting things. You may have trouble falling or staying asleep, insomnia, or sleeping too much. You may develop fatigue and weariness.

Consider creating a nightly routine without screens or devices. You could take a warm bath or shower, stretch, read, or drink a warm beverage to relax. These activities may not work right away, but eventually the routine will trigger your mind that it is time for bed.

Loss of Interest in Personal Hygiene

Anxiety and depression can go hand in hand. A common anxiety symptom shared with depression is losing interest in small but essential things. A woman with overwhelming anxiety may lose interest in the personal hygiene routine that made her happy. She may stop doing her hair and makeup or dressing nicely. She may stop dressing up to go outside the home. She may not bathe because she no longer has the energy to do so. She feels tired.

If this is you, reach out for help from a counselor and begin by taking just one step in the right direction.

Anxiety Treatment in Culver City, CA

If the signs of anxiety in women make life more complicated than it should be, or if you struggle with panic attacks, help is available. Contact our office today at Culver City Christian Counseling to schedule a session with a Christian counselor in Culver City, California. Your counselor will assess your symptoms and help create a management plan to lessen symptoms and stop panic attacks. Contact us today to get started.