Anxiety affects millions of people worldwide, all with differing signs, symptoms, and experiences. In women, anxiety can present through specific emotional, mental, and physical symptoms that can often be misunderstood. Some of these signs can be difficult to recognize as anxiety, so let’s discuss some common symptoms, why these symptoms present differently, and how to address them.
Why Anxiety Symptoms Differ in Women
Anxiety disorders are more commonly reported by women than men, with women being nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Why? Well, it can be due to many factors: hormonal fluctuations, societal expectations, and their tendency to be more expressive with their emotions. Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can impact mood regulation, which can increase risks of anxiety development. Women also often balance many differing roles and responsibilities that can amplify stress.
Emotional Symptoms of Anxiety in Women
Excessive Worry or Fear
In women, chronic and excessive worrying can sometimes appear as an intense focus on things that may be considered manageable by others, such as family safety, work responsibilities, and social relationships.
Irritability
Women experiencing anxiety may find themselves reacting more strongly to situations than they used to. It feels like a heightened sensitivity to seemingly minor inconveniences, often fueling irritability and frustrations.
Feeling On Edge
Women may describe feeling constantly “on edge,” as if they are waiting for something bad to happen. This can make it difficult to relax, leading to a sense of restlessness.
Self-Criticism
Women with anxiety can also hold themselves to high standards. If they feel they are underperforming with their responsibilities, or are not meeting their personal expectations, self-criticism can turn quickly into negative self-talk.
Physical Symptoms of Anxiety in Women
Muscle Tension
Chronic anxiety can result in muscle tension, specifically in the shoulders, neck, and jaw. They may also experience frequent headaches, back pain, or lockjaw.
Fatigue and Insomnia
The mental toll of anxiety can cause sleep disturbances, including insomnia. Even if they were to get a full night’s rest, anxiety makes it difficult to reach deep, restful stages of sleep, leaving prolonged fatigue throughout the day.
Rapid Heartbeat
A racing heart, or the sensation of your heart “pounding,” is a common symptom of anxiety. Some women report feeling shortness of breath or dizziness. While these are signs that your “fight-or-flight” system has been activated, it is also a clear sign that anxiety may be the underlying issue.
Behavioral Signs of Anxiety in Women
Avoidance Behavior
Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety, such as staying away from crowds of people, or being confined in tight spaces, is common. However, over time, avoidance can lead to isolation, which can have effects on well-being.
Compulsive Behavior
Some women with anxiety may engage in compulsive behaviors, which can look like excessive cleaning or checking certain things repeatedly. These behaviors are a way to try to regain control over anxiety, but they often just increase the anxiety instead.
Seeking Reassurance
Many women seek reassurance from close friends and family as a way to manage anxious thoughts. This may look like constantly asking if things are “okay,” or asking others if they are “mad” at them.
Tips for Managing Anxiety
- Prioritize Self-Care: Developing a regular self-care routine can have a positive impact. Activities like exercise or journaling can reduce anxiety and promote emotional wellness.
- Challenge Negative Thoughts: Taking time to identify negative thinking patterns, and learning to reframe and challenge them can help with breaking the cycle of anxiety.
- Seek Professional Support: Talking to a therapist or counselor is one of the most effective steps to take when dealing with anxiety. Therapy provides a safe space to explore issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
If you feel your anxiety has taken its toll, get the help you deserve and schedule a session with a therapist in your community.