It’s a familiar scene: palms sweating, heart racing, a knot in your stomach. These sensations are not just mere reactions to a scary movie or the thrill of a roller coaster; they’re the tell-tale signs of anxiety. But what exactly is anxiety? To better manage it, we first need to dissect and understand its intricate layers.

Emotional Aspect: At its core, anxiety is an emotion, much like happiness or sadness. However, unlike these fleeting feelings, anxiety can often feel like an unwelcome guest that overstays its welcome. It manifests as constant worry, fear, apprehension, or dread about future uncertainties, either based on real or imagined events.

Physical Symptoms: Anxiety isn’t just a mental or emotional state; it has a tangible physical presence. Common physical manifestations include a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, trembling, dry mouth, and dizziness. Over time, chronic anxiety can lead to more severe health issues, such as digestive problems, weakened immune system, and chronic fatigue.

Behavioral Changes: When someone is anxious, it often reflects in their behavior. Procrastination, avoiding certain situations or places, irritability, restlessness, or even obsessive-compulsive actions can all be indicators of underlying anxiety.