Anxiety: Feeling Like You're Drowning

Struggling to stay afloat, a constant struggle to stay above water, grasping for air, losing control, feeling overwhelmed - these are the most common metaphors I hear when people describe their anxiety to me. Anxiety can be a complex issue, manifesting in a variety of ways. But for many people, the sensation of drowning is a common theme.

Why does everyone, from CEOs and mumpreneurs to students describe anxiety as drowning? The physiological symptoms, as you can see below, contribute to this experience:

• Shortness of Breath:

  Anxiety often triggers a fight-or-flight response, leading to rapid breathing or shallow breaths. This physical sensation can mimic the feeling of suffocating underwater.

  
  

• Rapid Heart Rate:

  A racing heart rate is another hallmark of anxiety. This can further intensify the feeling of being overwhelmed and out of control, similar to struggling to stay afloat.

  
  

• Tightness in Chest:

  Anxiety can cause chest tightness, making it harder to take a deep breath and increasing the sensation of suffocation.

  
  

• Dizziness and Lightheadedness:

  These symptoms can be triggered by rapid breathing and heart rate fluctuations, further adding to the feeling of being disoriented and out of control, like you might be sinking underwater.

  
  

• Sense of Detachment:

  Anxiety can lead to a feeling of detachment from your surroundings, creating a sense of unreality similar to being underwater and observing the world through a distorted lens.
  

Beyond the Physical

The feeling of drowning with anxiety extends beyond just physical sensations. It also encompasses the overwhelming fear and sense of impending doom that often accompanies an anxiety attack. It's like feeling pulled under a current of worry, unable to surface for air or a moment of calm.

Remember, You Can Breathe Again

The good news is that the feeling of drowning with anxiety isn't permanent. There are techniques to manage these symptoms, such as:

• Deep Breathing Exercises:

  Focusing on slow, controlled breaths can help regulate your heart rate and ease feelings of shortness of breath.

  
  

• Progressive Muscle Relaxation:

  Tensing and releasing different muscle groups can release physical tension associated with anxiety.

  
  

• Mindfulness Techniques:

  Grounding yourself in the present moment can help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed by anxious thoughts.

  
  

• Seeking Professional Help:

  A trained therapist can teach you effective coping mechanisms and address underlying causes of your anxiety.
  

By managing your anxiety, you can develop the tools to navigate life's challenges with confidence. When you're ready to tackle the root causes, you can not only cope, but truly overcome anxiety and thrive.