What GAD actually feels like in your body (spoiler: it's exhausting)

# The Physical Reality of GAD When people think of anxiety, they often focus on the mental part - the racing thoughts and endless worry. But GAD is a full-body experience that can leave you feeling like you've run a marathon while sitting at your desk. ## The Muscle Tension Symphony Your body with GAD is like a guitar with all strings cranked too tight: - **Shoulders** perpetually hunched like you're bracing for impact - **Jaw** clenched so tight you might crack a tooth - **Neck** stiff as a board, leading to headaches - **Back** aching from holding tension all day ## The Energy Paradox GAD creates this weird contradiction: - You feel **wired and tired** at the same time - Your brain is racing but your body feels depleted - You're exhausted but can't relax enough to rest - It's like your phone battery at 10% but still running six apps ## The Digestive Drama Your gut gets the memo when your brain is stressed: - Nausea that comes and goes randomly - Loss of appetite or stress eating - Stomach knots that feel permanent - IBS-like symptoms (your gut has its own nervous system) ## The Sleep Betrayal Just when you need rest most, GAD sabotages your sleep: - Racing thoughts as soon as your head hits the pillow - Waking up at 3 AM with your mind already spinning - Never feeling truly rested, even after 8 hours - Dreaming about your anxieties (because apparently your brain doesn't clock out) ## Why Your Body Reacts This Way Your nervous system can't tell the difference between a real tiger and a work email at 9 PM. It responds to both with the same "fight or flight" response, flooding your system with stress hormones. ## The Good News These physical symptoms aren't dangerous - they're just uncomfortable. And they're often the first to improve when you start treatment. *btw - if you're experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, it's always okay to get them checked out by a doctor. Better safe than sorry.*