Anxiety disorders form a category of mental health diagnoses characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with daily activities. Anxiety is a common and often healthy emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. A lot of times, people don't know what anxiety feels like. However, when a person regularly feels excessive anxiety levels, it can become a medical disorder.

When a person experiences anxiety, their body responds as if they are in danger. This is known as the "fight or flight" response. The body releases stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can cause physical symptoms, including:

• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty swallowing

These physical symptoms can be alarming and may cause a person to feel even more anxious. In some cases, anxiety can also lead to or worsen other physical health problems, such as:

• Insomnia
• Digestive issues
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Chronic pain
• Heart disease

Anxiety can also have a significant impact on a person's mental health. It can lead to feelings of worry, fear, and panic that can interfere with daily activities and relationships. It can also cause difficulty concentrating and make it hard to make decisions. It's important to know that not everyone experiences anxiety the same way. So what anxiety feels like for one person might not be the same for another.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, it's essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Working with an anxiety coach or counselor can help you identify the cause of your stress and learn coping skills to manage it. Several treatment options are available for anxiety disorders, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and seeking help shows strength. Now that you know what anxiety feels like don't hesitate to reach out for support if anxiety affects your daily life or causes physical symptoms. A mental health professional such as an anxiety coach, can provide guidance and support on recovery.