One of the most frustrating parts of living with anxiety can be hearing that symptoms are “just stress” or “all in your head.” In reality, anxiety can manifest in numerous physical ways that impact nearly every part of a person’s life.
For some people, those symptoms can become severe enough to interfere with their ability to maintain employment or complete ordinary tasks. And it is not possible to simply think your way out of them or turn them off on command.
Anxiety can be a whole-body disorder
When someone experiences anxiety, the body’s autonomic nervous system activates its “fight or flight” response. This response is designed to protect people from danger, but when it remains activated for long periods of time, it can take a serious physical toll.
Common physical symptoms of anxiety may include:
- Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Muscle tension and body aches
- Headaches or migraines
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating or trembling
- Nausea and digestive problems
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep
Some people experience physical symptoms tied to anxiety that are so intense they believe they are having a heart attack or another medical emergency. Others may struggle with chronic exhaustion because their bodies remain in a constant state of stress.
The physical symptoms of anxiety can make it difficult to handle even routine activities, let alone maintain regular employment. Concentration problems and difficulty interacting with others is a major impediment in most occupations. In addition, anxiety can make consistent attendance at work impossible.
Anxiety and disability benefits
People applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits sometimes worry that their anxiety disorder will not be taken seriously because it is considered a mental health condition. However, anxiety disorders do qualify for benefits when symptoms are severe and well-documented.
Medical records play a major role in these claims. Documentation from doctors and therapists can demonstrate how anxiety affects someone’s mental functioning and physical health. It is important, too, for SSD applicants to list any overlapping or comorbid conditions in their claim, as well. This includes common concurrent disorders such as depression, chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues or cardiovascular problems that cause additional limitations.
Anxiety disorders are legitimate medical conditions. The body and nervous system are deeply connected, which means chronic stress and anxiety can trigger physical reactions that are difficult to ignore and even harder to control. If you’re having difficulty obtaining the disability benefits you need, experienced legal guidance can help.