Anxiety Symptoms & Panic Attacks
Why Your Body Feels Out of Control; and How to Calm It
If you’ve searched:
anxiety symptoms
panic attack
how to stop overthinking
CBT therapist near me
therapy near me
You’re not being dramatic.
You’re trying to understand why your body feels like it’s in danger — even when you’re safe.
Let’s make this simple.
Anxiety is not weakness.
It’s a nervous system stuck in overdrive.
What Are Anxiety Symptoms?
Common anxiety symptoms include:
Racing heart
Tight chest
Shortness of breath
Muscle tension
Overthinking conversations
Trouble sleeping
Constant “what if” thoughts
Anxiety is your body preparing for a threat.
The problem?
Sometimes there is no threat.
What Is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes.
Symptoms often include:
Heart pounding
Sweating or shaking
Dizziness
Feeling like you can’t breathe
Fear of losing control
Here’s the truth most people don’t hear:
A panic attack feels dangerous.
It is not dangerous.
It’s a false alarm.
Your body hit the emergency button when it didn’t need to.
Why Anxiety Happens
Anxiety builds when stress has nowhere to go.
Unprocessed fear.
Constant pressure.
Relational tension.
High responsibility.
Eventually, your nervous system discharges it.
That discharge feels like anxiety.
One Research-Backed Tool: Extended Exhale Breathing
When anxiety spikes:
Inhale for 4 seconds
Exhale for 6 seconds
Repeat for 2–3 minutes
Longer exhales stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system — your body’s calming branch.
This isn’t positive thinking.
It’s biology.
Practice it daily, not just in crisis.
Consider professional support if:
Panic attacks are recurring
Anxiety interferes with work or relationships
You’re avoiding normal activities
Overthinking feels constant
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most evidence-supported treatments for anxiety disorders.
If you’re searching for a CBT therapist near me or therapy near me, help is available.
FAQ: Anxiety & Panic Attacks
Are anxiety symptoms normal?
Occasional anxiety is normal. Persistent and overwhelming anxiety deserves attention.
Can panic attacks go away?
Yes. With evidence-based therapy, many people see significant reduction.
How do I stop overthinking?
You retrain both thoughts and the nervous system. Therapy helps break the cycle.
Should I see a doctor?
If symptoms are new or severe, rule out medical causes. Ongoing anxiety is best treated by a licensed therapist.
Find Help for Anxiety Near You
If anxiety symptoms or panic attacks are running your life, you don’t have to manage them alone.
Schedule confidential counseling here:
👉 https://known.clientsecure.me/
Find a therapist near you who specializes in anxiety and panic treatment.
You deserve to feel steady again.