Why Anxiety Can Feel
Physical in the Body

Many people do not recognize their anxiety as anxiety — because it does not feel like worry. It feels like a tight chest, a stomach that will not settle, or muscles that are always tense. They see their doctor, get tested, and find nothing physically wrong. The anxiety is real. It is just showing up in the body.

The Mind-Body Connection in Anxiety

Anxiety is a nervous system state, not just a thought. When your brain perceives threat it triggers physiological responses: heart rate increases, muscles tighten, breathing shallows, digestion slows. When anxiety becomes chronic, these responses stay partially activated all the time.

Physical Symptoms That Are Often Anxiety

• Chest tightness or heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath or shallow breathing
• Muscle tension — especially neck, shoulders, jaw
• Headaches and migraines
• Stomach problems — nausea, IBS, digestive issues
• Fatigue that does not improve with rest
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded

After a Car Accident

Physical anxiety symptoms are especially common after motor vehicle accidents. The body went through trauma — and even after the danger has passed, it may remain in a state of heightened alert. ICBC counselling may cover this treatment at no cost.