When Anxiety Feels Like It’s Running the Show

Have you ever noticed your heart racing before a big meeting, or felt your stomach tighten when facing something stressful? These can be physical responses to stress. People sometimes describe their reactions using the terms fight, flight, freeze or fawn.

Our stress responses evolved to help us respond to potential threats. Today, stress can arise in many situations, including work deadlines, relationship pressures and feeling stretched too thin. Although these situations differ from immediate physical danger, they can still trigger a noticeable stress response.

The Four Stress Responses

You may have heard of the fight-or-flight response. The terms fight, flight, freeze and fawn are also used to describe different ways people may react when they feel threatened or under pressure. These are descriptive terms rather than a formal diagnostic classification, and people's responses can vary.

Fight –You may feel defensive, irritable or more inclined to confront a difficult situation.

Flight – You may feel an urge to escape a stressful situation, avoid a task or keep yourself constantly busy.

Freeze– You may feel stuck, overwhelmed or find it difficult to decide what to do.

Fawn – Some people use this term to describe trying to please or appease others when they feel under pressure, sometimes at the expense of their own preferences.

These reactions are not a sign that something is wrong with you. Stress can affect people in different ways, and noticing your own patterns may help you understand how you respond to challenging situations.

What’s Happening in the Brain?

Stress involves several interconnected systems in the brain and body.

The amygdala is one of the brain regions involved in processing emotionally significant information, including potential threats. Stress can also involve changes in attention, bodily arousal and the way we think and make decisions.

Hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol play roles in the body's responses to stress. The effects vary depending on the person, the situation and the duration of the stress.

When we feel overwhelmed, it can sometimes be harder to concentrate, reflect on a situation or decide what to do next. Understanding these responses can be a starting point for exploring ways to manage everyday stress.

So, What Can Help?

“There are different approaches people can explore when managing everyday stress. What feels helpful can vary from person to person.”

Breathing techniques – Some people find slow, comfortable breathing helpful when they feel stressed. Choose a pace that feels natural, and stop if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable.

Movement – Walking, stretching or other forms of movement can be part of a general wellbeing routine. Choose an activity that suits your abilities and circumstances.

Grounding practices – Paying attention to your surroundings, such as noticing five things you can see, may help you focus on the present moment when you feel distracted by worries.

Exploring Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy sessions commonly involve guided relaxation, focused attention and the use of verbal suggestions or imagery. The experience can vary from person to person.

If you are considering hypnotherapy, you may wish to ask your practitioner about their training, approach, what a session involves and what the available evidence says about the use of hypnotherapy for your particular concerns.

It is important to choose support that suits your individual needs and to seek advice from an appropriately qualified health professional if anxiety is affecting your daily life.

Holistic wellbeing – Sleep, nutrition, physical activity and emotional wellbeing are all aspects of everyday health. Considering these areas may help you identify practical ways to look after yourself.

Recognising Your Own Patterns

People respond to stress in different ways. You might notice that you become irritable, put off difficult tasks, feel overwhelmed or find yourself agreeing to things you would rather decline.

Taking time to reflect on these experiences may help you identify situations that you find challenging and consider what support might be appropriate for you.

There is no single approach that works for everyone. If anxiety is persistent or affecting your everyday life, a registered health professional can help you explore appropriate support options.

Final Thoughts

If any of this resonates with you, you are not alone. Stress can affect people in different ways, and noticing your own responses may be a useful first step towards understanding what you are experiencing.

There is no single approach that suits everyone. If anxiety is affecting your everyday life, consider speaking with an appropriately qualified health professional about the support options available to you.

Learning about stress, reflecting on your experiences and exploring suitable support can all form part of looking after your wellbeing.

If you would like to learn more about my approach and what a hypnotherapy session involves, I offer a free clarity call. This is an opportunity to ask questions, discuss what you are looking for and decide whether my service may be suitable for you.

You can find more information or enquire about a clarity call through my website: www.teresasaunders.com

A note about wellbeing

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for individual health advice, diagnosis or treatment. Everyone's circumstances are different. If you are experiencing persistent anxiety or distress, consider seeking advice from an appropriately qualified health professional. Hypnotherapy should not replace or delay appropriate medical or mental health care.