Published on: August 29, 2024
Empower yourself by delving into the intricate world of stress and anxiety, which involves unraveling the chemical reactions within our bodies. Let’s explore how stress hormones like cortisol play a pivotal role in this process.
The Role of Stress Hormones
Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, is a key player in our response to stress or danger. When the brain’s hypothalamus is triggered, it sets off the nervous system, leading to a surge in cortisol. This hormone then steps in to boost blood sugar levels and enhance bodily functions for tissue repair, enabling the fight-or-flight response.
Effects of Cortisol Imbalance
Normally, cortisol levels decrease once the stressful situation is resolved, letting the heart rate normalize. However, ongoing stress can disrupt this balance, leading to prolonged cortisol exposure. This imbalance may cause:
- Digestive problems
- Headaches
- Muscle tension and pain
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart disease risk
- Sleep issues
- Weight changes
Causes of Anxiety
Chronic cortisol exposure or a faulty stress response often leads to anxiety, even without an external stressor. Key contributing factors include:
- Persistent Stress and Trauma: Constant stress can overwork the stress response system. Traumatic events may cause enduring stress, resulting in anxiety, especially in situations reminiscent of trauma, leading to PTSD.
- Childhood Trauma: Childhood abuse can result in low self-esteem and social avoidance, deeply rooted in adult anxiety.
Indicators of Anxiety
Anxiety differs from typical stress due to its persistent nature. Key symptoms persisting for two weeks or longer might indicate an anxiety disorder. These include:
- Restlessness and irritability
- Persistent fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Various physical aches and digestive issues
- Uncontrollable constant worry
- Physical symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate
- Feelings of detachment and overwhelming fear
Telling Panic and Anxiety Attacks Apart
Though they may seem similar, panic and anxiety attacks have distinct characteristics:
Panic Attacks: Sudden onset with symptoms like shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, dizziness, and intense fear, often lasting less than 30 minutes.
Anxiety Attacks: Develop slowly and last longer, characterized by agitation, withdrawal, avoidance, bouts of crying, and overwhelming feelings.
Seeking Help for Anxiety
If anxiety symptoms persist for over two weeks and affect your daily life, it’s essential to consult a mental health care provider. An initial assessment helps identify the extent of the issue and leads to recommendations like:
- Medications: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines like Xanax.
- Therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Balanced Mind Mental Health: Your Partner in Care and Wellness
Don’t let anxiety and stress overshadow life. For comprehensive information, schedule an appointment today with a provider at Balanced Mind Mental Health and take the first steps toward improving mental health.
References
–McEwen, B. S. (2000). “Allostasis and Allostatic Load: Implications for Neuropsychopharmacology.” Neuropsychopharmacology.
–Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). “Cortisol: What It Does and Why It Matters.” Mayo Clinic.
–National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). “Generalized Anxiety Disorder: When Worry Gets Out of Control.” NIMH.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only (regardless of date or topic), offering generalized details. It is NOT comprehensive and does not include all relevant information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks for specific patients. It aims to aid understanding of mental health conditions or treatments, not to replace medical advice or the evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a healthcare provider tailored to an individual’s unique circumstances. Always consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan. This information does not endorse any treatment or medication as safe, effective, or approved. Balanced Mind Mental Health and its affiliates disclaims any warranty or liability associated with this information or its use.