Anxiety and the Body: Frequently Asked Questions
Anxiety is more than a mental experience; it is a physiological event. At Kennedy Psychiatric, we focus on helping you understand how your nervous system responds to stress and providing the clinical tools to help you work toward a more stable sense of calm.
"Anxiety can be profoundly distressing because of how it impacts the body. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping patients regulate these responses so they can move forward with a sense of ease and agency."
Emergency and Crisis Resources
If you are experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, please do not wait for a return call or email from our office.
- Immediate Danger: Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.
- Crisis Support: Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, and confidential).
- Text Support: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line.
Please note: Kennedy Psychiatric is an outpatient practice and does not provide 24-hour crisis intervention. Communication via phone or email is monitored during business hours only.
The Physical Experience of Anxiety
Can anxiety cause physical sensations like dizziness or stomach upset?
Yes. When the body's "alert" system is activated, it shifts resources away from non-essential functions like digestion and alters your breathing and heart rate. This can lead to various sensations, including lightheadedness, nausea, or tension headaches. These are real physical responses to an overactive stress signal. While these physical symptoms can be physical responses to stress, it is essential to have any new or persistent symptoms evaluated to rule out other medical causes.
Why does anxiety sometimes feel like a physical emergency?
During a period of intense anxiety or panic, the body releases a surge of adrenaline. This can cause the chest muscles to tighten and the heart to race. While these sensations are a natural part of the "fight or flight" response, any new or concerning physical symptoms should always be evaluated by a physician to ensure your overall health.
Does chronic anxiety lead to fatigue?
Sustained anxiety is physically and mentally exhausting. Remaining in a state of "high alert" consumes a significant amount of energy. Many patients find that as their anxiety becomes more regulated through treatment, their natural energy levels and ability to focus begin to return.
Understanding Triggers and Patterns
Why is anxiety often more intense in the morning or at night?
Our bodies follow natural hormonal cycles. Cortisol, a primary stress hormone, typically peaks in the early morning to help us wake up; for those with anxiety, this peak can feel like an immediate sense of dread. Conversely, nighttime anxiety often occurs when the day's distractions fade, allowing the mind to focus on internal worries.
Can caffeine or other stimulants impact anxiety?
Caffeine is a stimulant that mimics the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart or jitteriness. For those with a sensitive nervous system, even small amounts can amplify existing anxiety. Part of our work involves looking at these external factors to see how they influence your symptoms.
Diagnostic Clarity and Treatment
Is there a difference between anxiety and other conditions like ADHD?
Yes, though they can often look similar. For example, the restlessness and "brain fog" of anxiety can be mistaken for ADHD. A thorough psychiatric evaluation is essential to distinguish between the two, as the treatment approaches - particularly regarding medication - are very different.
How does Dr. Kennedy approach medication for anxiety?
Medication is used as a supportive tool to "lower the volume" of the body's stress response. Dr. Kennedy practices Medication Stewardship, focusing on non-habit-forming options that provide stability without causing sedation. The goal is to provide enough relief so that you can effectively engage in the therapeutic work of recovery.
How long does it take to feel a shift in symptoms?
The timeline for restoration is highly individual. While many patients begin to notice a shift in their physical tension early in care, our focus is on sustained, long-term stability.
For a full evaluation of your anxiety, call (929) 505-0504 to speak with Dr. Kennedy.
Call (929) 505-0504These answers are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 or go to your nearest emergency room.