Why your anxiety is so physical + how to get rid of social anxiety for good
Sep 10, 2023
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In this informative podcast, they explore the physical manifestations of anxiety and provide practical ways to manage them. Dr. Harry Barry shares insights from his book on curing social anxiety and offers techniques for building connections in conversations. They also discuss the physical symptoms of anxiety during sleep and provide techniques for managing anxiety, including modified flooding and simple cognitive behavioral therapy ideas. The difference between depersonalization and dissociation is explained, and the importance of treating general anxiety is emphasized. The author's books, 'The Power of Connection' and 'Anxiety and Panic', are discussed, and gratitude is expressed for the impactful episode.
Anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms caused by the body's stress response, and it is important to recognize and accept these symptoms as not dangerous.
Vomiting can be a result of acute stress and muscle spasms caused by anxiety, and managing anxiety through techniques like flooding and therapy can reduce the severity and frequency of anxiety-induced vomiting.
Skin issues such as hives and rashes can be linked to heightened stress and anxiety levels, and addressing the underlying anxiety through techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can gradually improve these skin conditions.
Deep dives
Understanding the Physical Manifestations of Anxiety
Anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms such as stomach issues, jaw pain, aches and pains, headaches, and skin conditions. These symptoms are caused by the body's stress response, which involves the release of cortisol and adrenaline. The key is to recognize that these symptoms are not dangerous and to learn to accept the discomfort. Flooding, a technique where one allows the physical symptoms to wash over them without assigning danger to them, can be effective in managing phobias and panic attacks. Depersonalization, a feeling of detachment from oneself, and dissociation are also symptoms of anxiety but are often related to more severe cases or trauma. In such cases, therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in treating anxiety.
Dealing with Anxiety-Induced Vomiting
Anxiety can sometimes lead to vomiting, particularly in situations of high stress and fear. This can be distressing and challenging to rationalize, as throwing up is a traumatic experience for the body. It is important to understand that vomiting is a result of muscle spasms caused by acute stress. While it may be difficult to explain to oneself or a child, it is crucial to reassure them that vomiting does not pose a danger and is a response to heightened anxiety. By learning to manage anxiety through techniques like flooding and therapy, the severity and frequency of anxiety-induced vomiting can be reduced.
Managing Anxiety-Related Skin Issues
Anxiety can manifest in various skin conditions, such as hives, rashes, or increased sensitivity. These skin issues are often linked to heightened stress and anxiety levels. While using topical treatments like creams or medications might provide temporary relief, it is crucial to address the underlying anxiety. By focusing on managing anxiety through techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy, the skin conditions can gradually improve. It is important to understand that managing anxiety should be the primary goal to alleviate skin issues caused by anxiety.
Managing Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety during sleep can lead to anxious dreams, as the amygdala becomes more active when we sleep. This can result in waking up with tense muscles and a sense of anxiety already present. Understanding that these physical symptoms are caused by anxiety is key to managing them. Two strategies discussed are modified flooding and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Modified flooding involves acknowledging the physical symptoms as background noise and focusing on living life despite them. CBT helps in changing thinking patterns and beliefs to reduce anxiety. Accepting and managing physical symptoms is crucial before addressing other aspects of anxiety.
Understanding the Connection Between Stress and Anxiety
Our stress system is there to keep us safe, but the modern world sometimes causes it to be neither challenged nor properly utilized. Stress and anxiety are closely related, and it is important not to separate them. Addressing stress levels can help reduce anxiety. Factors such as sleep, exercise, diet, and technology usage should be evaluated to identify sources of stress. Recognizing the link between stress and anxiety can provide a starting point for managing symptoms and making positive changes. By understanding the connection and putting in the effort, simple techniques can make a significant difference in reducing anxiety.
I can't write a title long enough to capture all that's in this episode but it is a banger. It is probably one of the most helpful ones I've ever recorded. It's practical, it's back to basics to some degrees and while I set out to talk with an expert about the physical manifestations about anxiety and how to manage those, such as understanding depersonalisation for example, the conversation really wound up being a very essential grounding for understanding the anxiety we experience and then, of course, it's jam packed with really smart and sensible ways to get on top of that anxiety. It's with Dr Harry Barry who I've had on twice before. He's always one of my most listened to guests. He has a new book out, The Power of Connection, which he'll discuss. He also shares what he believes is a surefire way to cure yourself of all social anxiety. The first 15 minutes are dedicated to social anxiety. As an essential add on to this episode, and for a real time way to practice the flooding technique he discusses, I really advise you sign up to my limited library of real time audio guides to help you with anxiety and panic, which I've called Owning It Real Time. Sign up here. I don't often promote my episodes as much as I should but for this one, well if I'd heard it when I was in the throes of anxiety myself, it would have saved me a huge amount of suffering. Bookmark it and come back to it as often as you need. Thanks for listening.
Own your anxiety as and when it happens with Owning It: Real Time. The situation specific series of audio guides that helps you move through your most anxious moments. Available now on Acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/owningittheanxietypodcast.
