What is Anxiety?
Understanding the Mind-Body Response and How to Cope
At some point in life, most of us have felt anxious—before a big test, a job interview, or while waiting for important news. Anxiety is a natural human response to stress and uncertainty. But when anxiety becomes chronic, overwhelming, or interferes with daily life, it can signal an anxiety disorder.
At Pulianda & Brock Psychology Associates, we believe in helping individuals understand their symptoms and take actionable steps toward relief. Let’s break down what anxiety is, how it shows up, and what you can do about it.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is your brain’s way of reacting to perceived danger—even if no immediate threat exists. It’s closely tied to your body’s fight-or-flight response. When you’re anxious, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, preparing you to “act” in the face of danger. This response helped our ancestors survive, but today, our brains can sometimes interpret everyday stress as threat, keeping us stuck in a cycle of worry and tension.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety can affect both your mind and body. Common symptoms include:
Excessive worry about everyday situations
Racing thoughts that are hard to control
Physical tension: muscle aches, jaw clenching, or shaking
Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
Sleep issues (trouble falling or staying asleep)
Digestive discomfort or appetite changes
Heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or dizziness
If these symptoms are persistent and interfere with your daily life, it may be time to seek support.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Ongoing worry about a wide range of life events.
Panic Disorder: Recurring panic attacks—sudden periods of intense fear that may feel like a heart attack.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations.
Phobias: Irrational fears of specific objects or situations (e.g., flying, heights, spiders).
Health Anxiety (Hypochondriasis): Constant worry about your health despite medical reassurance.
Why It Happens
There’s no single cause of anxiety—it often results from a combination of:
Genetics: A family history of anxiety or other mental health disorders.
Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin or GABA.
Life experiences: Trauma, chronic stress, or major life changes can increase vulnerability.
Personality traits: People who are more perfectionistic, sensitive, or have low distress tolerance may be more prone to anxiety.
How We Treat Anxiety
The good news? Anxiety is treatable—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At Pulianda & Brock Psychology Associates, we offer research-backed therapies tailored to your needs:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages mindfulness and values-based living, even in the presence of anxiety.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Especially effective for trauma-related anxiety and panic symptoms.
We work collaboratively to build a plan that empowers you to regain control and reconnect with your life.
You’re Not Alone
Anxiety can feel isolating, but it’s one of the most common mental health concerns—affecting over 40 million adults in the U.S. alone. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it’s a courageous step toward healing.
If you’re struggling with anxiety or are unsure whether what you’re feeling is “normal,” we’re here to help. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if therapy may be a good fit for you.
Ready to take the first step?
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your journey toward peace, clarity, and confidence
