Do i have anxiety

Ask a Therapist Is This Normal?
1

Hello, this could be pretty much me being all in my head but i keep having constant chest pains, high heart rates, and i feel like something bad is always happen. My chest feels extremely tight for quite literally the entire day and my mind is overwhelmed by thoughts. Furthermore, my concentration has regressed and i find it hard to simply pay attention during lessons. Im not sure if im feeling anxious or if my body is just weak but at times where i try to calm down my breathlessness i get eveb more frantic. It feels as though no matter how big my breath is, the air doesnt want to enter my body. To end it off, i really dont know whats going on with me and i really want to put an end to this lingering chest pain and overwhelming heart rates…

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yes. get a check with a doctor to see if there’s any health issues first, if there isn’t get a referal for psychiatrict help for anxiety. do those 2 at the same time when u visit a polyclinic. u can try chatgpting coping mechanisms to calm your stuff first and tell it to elaborate each point and guide you while u r waiting for ur appointment.
you will get better after receiving professional help

3

Hi @User1695,

It sounds like you are going through physical discomfort and emotional distress. From what you’ve described, the chest tightness, high heart rates, and breathlessness sound incredibly distressing. It seems like your body might be responding to stress or anxiety, which can sometimes amplify physical sensations like chest tightness and breathlessness. Have you noticed when this started or if certain situations make it feel worse? Understanding when and where it happens might give clues about how to approach it.

  • When was the first time that you experienced similar symptoms in the past, and how did you manage it?
  • Do these symptoms feel worse during specific times of the day or during particular activities?
  • Do you recall any recent events or situations that might have triggered this cycle?

Sometimes, when our minds and bodies are overwhelmed, it feels like everything is happening all at once, leaving no room to breathe. Let’s pause for a moment and acknowledge your feelings and physical sensations, while incredibly uncomfortable, are your body’s way of saying it needs care and attention.

If it feels manageable, here are a few steps to consider. Let me know how these feel for you:

  1. Grounding Technique: When you feel the chest tightness, try focusing on your surroundings. For example:
  • Look for 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.
  • This might help shift focus away from the overwhelming physical sensations.
  1. Small Breathing Practice: Instead of taking deep breaths, try slow, gentle breaths. For example:
  • Breathe in through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, and exhale through your mouth for 6 counts. This can help regulate your nervous system.
  1. Seeking Support: It sounds like this has been affecting you for some time. As mentioned by @user1138, would you feel comfortable speaking to a trusted adult, school counsellor, or healthcare professional about what you’re experiencing? They might help explore and address the origins of your anxiety.

You’ve already taken a huge step by sharing how you’re feeling. That takes strength, and it shows you’re willing to work toward feeling better. This is not something you have to face alone, and there’s hope for relief. Taking small steps: By taking small steps, such as exploring what’s happening with curiosity instead of judgement, you can gain a sense of control. Take care,:yellow_heart: