Present Tense Affirmations I am in control I am calm, focused, and relaxed I remain calm even when under intense stress I have the power to regulate my emotions I always stay calm in difficult or frustrating situations I am able to diffuse my anger and channel it in a more productive way I control my anger by expressing myself in a firm yet positive manner I always speak my mind rather than let frustrations build up I am able to calm myself down and detach from anger I allow myself to acknowledge angry feelings without losing control
Future Tense Affirmations I will control myself I am starting to effectively manage my anger Staying relaxed is becoming easier I will remain calm and centered in frustrating situations Managing my anger will create a better life for myself and my loved ones I am transforming into someone who confronts problems constructively Each day it is becoming easier to diffuse my anger I am gaining more and more control over my emotions I will become a positive person whom others can turn to without fear Anger management is changing my life for the better
Natural Affirmations Being calm, relaxed, and in control is normal for me Controlling my anger comes naturally to me I find it easy to calm myself down and relax It is important that I learn to manage my anger I believe I can break free from anger and live a better life Diffusing anger is easy for me Thinking positively in tough situations is just something I do naturally I owe it to myself to manage my anger Managing anger will help to repair and strengthen my bond to friends and family I am a naturally calm, easy going, and positive person
To celebrate her incredible life, we’ve selected 101 of our favorite Louise Hay Affirmations
Louise Hay
Louise Hay dedicated her life to teaching people how to live a positive and empowered life, often with the aid of positive statements and beliefs, which she called affirmations. Louise taught that your point of power is always in the present moment, where you plant the mental seeds for creating new experiences. You’re never stuck, for you can choose new thoughts and new ways of thinking. Your future can always be more positive, more loving and more prosperous. Think about how you’d like to live and what you’d like to accomplish as you read affirmations out loud.
We hope these positive affirmations by Louise Hay bring you comfort, prosperity, healing, and love in your life as they have in all of ours. Let’s affirm:
Life loves me!
All is well in my world. Everything is working out for my highest good. Out of this situation only good will come. I am safe!
It’s only a thought, and a thought can be changed.
The point of power is always in the present moment.
Every thought we think is creating our future.
I am in the process of positive change.
I am comfortable looking in the mirror, saying, “I love you, I really love you.”
It is safe to look within.
I forgive myself and set myself free.
As I say yes to life, life says yes to me.
I now go beyond other people’s fears and limitations.
I am Divinely guided and protected at all times.
I claim my power and move beyond all limitations.
I trust the process of life.
I am deeply fulfilled by all that I do.
We are all family, and the planet is our home.
As I forgive myself, it becomes easier to forgive others.
I am willing to let go.
Deep at the center of my being is an infinite well of love.
I prosper wherever I turn.
I
miracles into my life.
Whatever I need to know is revealed to me at exactly the right time.
I am loved, and I am at peace.
My happy thoughts help create my healthy body.
Life supports me in every possible way.
My day begins and ends with gratitude.
I listen with love to my body’s messages.
The past is over.
Only good can come to me.
I am beautiful, and everybody loves me.
Everyone I encounter today has my best interests at heart.
I always work with and for wonderful people. I love my job.
Filling my mind with pleasant thoughts is the quickest road to health.
I am healthy, whole, and complete.
I am at home in my body.
I devote a portion of my time to helping others. It is good for my own health.
I am greeted by love wherever I go.
Wellness is the natural state of my body. I am in perfect health.
I am pain free and totally in sync with life.
I am very thankful for all the love in my life. I find it everywhere.
I know that old, negative patterns no longer limit me. I let them go with ease.
In the infinity of life where I am, all is perfect, whole, and complete.
I trust my intuition. I am willing to listen to that still, small voice within.
I am willing to ask for help when I need it.
I forgive myself for not being perfect.
I honor who I am.
I attract only healthy relationships. I am always treated well.
I do not have to prove myself to anyone.
I come from the loving space of my heart, and I know that love opens all doors.
I am in harmony with nature.
I
new ideas.
Today, no person, place, or thing can irritate or annoy me. I choose to be at peace.
I am safe in the Universe and All Life loves and supports me.
I experience love wherever I go.
I am willing to change.
I drink lots of water to cleanse my body and mind.
I choose to see clearly with the eyes of love.
I cross all bridges with joy and ease.
I release all drama from my life.
Loving others is easy when I love and accept myself.
I balance my life between work, rest, and play.
I return to the basics of life: forgiveness, courage, gratitude, love, and humor.
I am in charge, I now take my own power back.
My body appreciates how I take care of it.
I spend time with positive, energetic people.
The more peaceful I am inside, the more peace I have to share with others.
Today is a sacred gift from Life.
I have the courage to live my dreams.
I release all negative thoughts of the past and all worries about the future.
I forgive everyone in my past for all perceived wrongs. I release them with love.
I only speak positively about those in my world. Negativity has no part in my life.
We are all eternal spirit.
I act as if I already have what I want—it’s an excellent way to attract happiness in my life.
I enjoy the foods that are best for my body.
My life gets better all the time.
It is safe for me to speak up for myself.
I live in the paradise of my own creation.
Perfect health is my Divine right, and I claim it now.
I release all criticism.
I am on an ever-changing journey.
I am grateful for my healthy body. I love life.
Love flows through my body, healing all dis-ease.
My income is constantly increasing.
My healing is already in process.
There is always more to learn.
I now live in limitless love, light, and joy.
I become more lovable every day.
It is now safe for me to release all of my childhood traumas and move into love.
I deserve all that is good.
I am constantly discovering new ways to improve my health.
Love is all there is!
My life gets more fabulous every day.
Today I am at peace.
Loving others is easy when I love and accept myself.
I have the perfect living space.
I have compassion for all.
I trust the Universe to help me see the good in everything and in everyone.
I love my family members just as they are. I do not try to change anyone.
There is plenty for everyone, and we bless and prosper each other.
Anxiety can impact physical and mental health. There are short- and long-term effects on both the mind and body.
While many people know about the effects of anxiety on mental health, fewer people are aware of the physical side effects, which can include digestive issues and an increased risk of infection. Anxiety can also change the function of the cardiovascular, urinary, and respiratory systems.
In this article, we discuss the most common physical symptoms and side effects of anxiety.
Share on PinterestDizziness and lightheadedness are potential symptoms of anxiety.
Anxiety can have a significant effect on the body, and long-term anxiety increases the risk of developing chronic physical conditions.
The medical community suspects that anxiety develops in the amygdala, an area of the brain that manages emotional responses.
When a person becomes anxious, stressed, or frightened, the brain sends signals to other parts of the body. The signals communicate that the body should prepare to fight or flee.
The body responds, for example, by releasing adrenaline and cortisol, which many describe as stress hormones.
The fight or flight response is useful when confronting an aggressive person, but it is less helpful when going for a job interview or giving a presentation. Also, it is not healthy for this response to persist in the long term.
Some of the ways that anxiety affects the body include:
Breathing and respiratory changes
During periods of anxiety, a person’s breathing may become rapid and shallow, which is called hyperventilation.
Hyperventilation allows the lungs to take in more oxygen and transport it around the body quickly. Extra oxygen helps the body prepare to fight or flee.
Hyperventilation can make people feel like they are not getting enough oxygen and they may gasp for breath. This can worsen hyperventilation and its symptoms, which include:
dizziness
feeling faint
lightheadedness
tingling
weakness
Cardiovascular system response
Anxiety can cause changes to the heart rate and the circulation of blood throughout the body.
A faster heart rate makes it easier to flee or fight, while increased blood flow brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.
When blood vessels narrow, this is called vasoconstriction, and it can affect body temperature. People often experience hot flashes as a result of vasoconstriction.
In response, the body sweats to cool down. This can sometimes be too effective and make a person feel cold.
Long-term anxiety may not be good for the cardiovascular system and heart health. Some studiesTrusted Source suggest that anxiety increases the risk of heart diseases in otherwise healthy people.
Impaired immune function
In the short-term, anxiety boosts the immune system’s responses. However, prolonged anxiety can have the opposite effect.
Cortisol prevents the release of substances that cause inflammation, and it turns off aspects of the immune system that fight infections, impairing the body’s natural immune response.
People with chronic anxiety disorders may be more likely to get the common cold, the flu, and other types of infection.
Changes in digestive function
Cortisol blocks processes that the body considers nonessential in a fight or flight situation.
One of these blocked processes is digestion. Also, adrenaline reduces blood flow and relaxes the stomach muscles.
As a result, a person with anxiety may experience nausea, diarrhea, and a feeling that the stomach is churning. They may also lose their appetite.
One studyTrusted Source, of outpatients at a gastroenterology clinic in Mumbai, reported that 30–40 percent of participants with IBS also had anxiety or depression.
Urinary response
Anxiety and stress can increase the need to urinate, and this reaction is more common in people with phobias.
The need to urinate or a loss of control over urination may have an evolutionary basis, as it is easier to flee with an empty bladder.
However, the link between anxiety and an increased urge to urinate remains unclear.null
The medical community has yet to identify the cause of anxiety, but several factors may contribute to its development. Causes and risk factors may include:
To make a diagnosis, a doctor will evaluate symptoms and check for any underlying medical conditions that may be triggering the anxiety.
Diagnosis will depend on the type of anxiety disorder a person appears to have. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM–5) provides criteria that can help identify the issues and decide on appropriate treatment.
Anxiety is highly treatable, and doctors usually recommend a combination of some of the following:
medication
therapy
support groups
lifestyle changes involving physical activity and meditation
The doctor may suggest counseling, either one-on-one or in a group. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one strategy that can help a person see events and experiences in a different way.
Anxiety describes a group of disorders that cause worry, nervousness, and fear. These feelings of anxiety interfere with everyday life and are out of proportion to the triggering object or event.
In some cases, people are unable to identify a trigger and feel anxious for what seems like no reason.
While mild anxiety can be expected in some situations, such as before an important presentation or meeting, persistent anxiety can interfere with a person’s well-being.
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders represent the most common mental illness in the United States and affect 40 million adults in the country every year.
While these disorders respond well to treatment, but only 36.9 percent of people with an anxiety disorder receive treatment.
Types of anxiety disorders include:
Generalized anxiety disorder — excessive anxiety for no apparent reason that lasts for 6 months or longer
Social anxiety — fear of judgment or humiliation in social situations
Separation anxiety — fear of being away from home or family
Phobia — fear of a specific activity, object, or situation
Hypochondriasis — persistent fear of having serious health issues
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) — recurring thoughts that cause specific behaviors
Post-traumatic stress disorder — severe anxiety after a traumatic event or events
A hot flash is a sudden and unexpected feeling of warmth or intense heat. People experiencing a hot flash may feel hot, sweaty, or flushed in their face and neck.
Depending on the cause, a person may also experience heart palpitations, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
Hot flashes are most commonly associated with perimenopause or menopause. However, people can experience symptoms that resemble a hot flash for a variety of reasons.
Feeling hot or flushed is a common symptom of anxiety. In times of panic or stress, a person may feel a sudden sensation of heat, similar to that of a hot flash.
This happens due to the “fight, flight, freeze, or fawn” response, which is the body’s way of preparing for perceived danger. The body releases stress hormones that send blood to the muscles and increase circulation, which can contribute to feeling hot.
As a result, a person may feel unexpectedly hot if caught off guard by anxiety or stress, or if they are experiencing a panic attack.
An older 2006 study found that children with anxiety sometimes experienced sweating and blushing. These and other physical symptoms of anxiety were more pronounced in those with severe anxiety and impairment.
However, it is worth noting that stress and anxiety can also be a hot flash trigger for those in perimenopause. Some people also report experiencing hot flashes or night sweats while on their period.
a choking sensation, or feeling that something is stuck in the throat (globus pharyngeus)
sweating
trembling
intense panic or feeling that things are out of control
an urge to escape
Panic attacks can occur because of a specific worry or event, or they may come on unexpectedly.nullADVERTISINGnullADVERTISEMENTExplore new calming exercises with Calm
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Talk therapy: Talk therapies allow people to talk about how they feel in an understanding, nonjudgemental environment. A therapist can help someone identify the causes for their anxiety and learn how to address them.
Relaxation techniques: Making relaxation and mindfulness part of a daily routine can help with anxiety, as well as its impact on sleep and concentration. A person may wish to try yoga, tai chi, meditation, mindful hobbies, massage, or spending time in nature.
Medication: Medications such as antidepressants can relieve the symptoms of anxiety. They do not treat the underlying cause, but they can improve a person’s quality of life and ability to participate in therapy.
Social support: Connection and support from friends and family can help during anxiety treatment. People can also join support groups and talk to others with similar experiences.
Research suggests that there is a strong association between anxiety, menopause, and hot flashes.
A 2016 studyTrusted Source followed 233 females experiencing menopause for 14 years to assess the connection. The study found that while most participants (72%) reported moderate to severe hot flashes, those who experienced somatic anxiety were three times more likely to report them.
Somatic anxiety refers to anxiety that causes physical symptoms. As a result, it may be easy to confuse the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause with the symptoms of anxiety. Sometimes, they may occur at the same time.
Some people may feel anxious about their hot flashes and fear having another. Some may have preexisting anxiety as they enter menopause, which typically occurs around age 45–50.
Doctors often determine if a person is entering menopause based on their symptoms. Sometimes, they may perform a blood test. It is more likely that a person’s hot flashes are menopause related if that person:
has other signs of perimenopause, such as vaginal dryness, dry skin or hair, or mood swings
notices hot flash triggers that are unrelated to anxiety, such as spicy food, alcohol, hot weather, and hot showers or baths
Menopause can also occur earlier in life. However, for females experiencing hot flash-like symptoms under the age of 40, the cause is less likely to be menopause.
Females experiencing hot flashes may find it helpful to keep a diary to record when they occur and any potential triggers. This may help give someone an idea of whether their symptoms are purely anxiety related, or whether they may be experiencing hormonal shifts.
Some factors can make early menopause more likely, including:
In addition to anxiety and menopause, there are some other medical conditions that may cause hot flashes or a general feeling of being too hot. These include:
certain medications, especially those that dilate blood vessels or those that affect hormones such as estrogen
infections, which can cause fever or alternating hot and cold sensations
As a result, it is important to speak with a doctor if hot flashes frequently occur, particularly if they occur when a person does not feel anxious, such as during sleep.
A doctor can perform tests to rule out other conditions, and they can provide support in finding treatment for anxiety, if necessary.
People can experience anxiety and hot flashes during times of stress or during panic attacks. Sweating, rapid breathing, and a fast heartbeat may also indicate anxiety.
Finding a cool place to calm down can help. Breathing exercises, EFT, and other coping strategies can help with short-term anxiety. Treatment for anxiety typically involves therapy and, sometimes, medication.
However, hot flash symptoms and anxiety can also occur in people who are beginning perimenopause or who have other medical conditions. Speak with a doctor to rule out other possibilities.
The National Institute of Mental Health describe the main symptoms of bipolar disorder as alternating episodes of high and low mood. Changes in energy levels, sleep patterns, ability to focus, and other features can dramatically impact a person’s behavior, work, relationships, and other aspects of life.
Most people experience mood changes at some time, but those related to bipolar disorder are more intense than regular mood changes, and other symptoms can occur. Some people experience psychosis, which can include delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia.
Between episodes, the person’s mood may be stable for months or years, especially if they are following a treatment plan.
Treatment enables many people with bipolar disorder to work, study, and live a full and productive life. However, when treatment helps a person feel better, they may stop taking their medication. Then, the symptoms can return.
Some aspects of bipolar disorder can make a person feel good. During an elevated mood, they may find they are more sociable, talkative, and creativeTrusted Source.
However, an elevated mood is unlikely to persist. Even if it does, it may be hard to sustain attention or follow through with plans. This can make it difficult to follow a project through to the end.
According to the International Bipolar Association, symptoms vary between individuals. For some people, an episode can last for several months or years. Others may experience “highs” and “lows” at the same time or in quick succession.
In “rapid cycling” bipolar disorder, the person will have four or more episodes within a year.
Mania or hypomania
Hypomania and mania are elevated moods. Mania is more intense than hypomania.
being sociable and forthcoming, sometimes aggressively so
engaging in risky behavior
increased libido
feeling exhilarated or euphoric
having high levels of self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-importance
talking a lot and rapidly
jumping from one topic to another in conversation
having “racing” thoughts that come and go quickly, and bizarre ideas that the person may act upon
denying or not realizing that anything is wrong
Some people with bipolar disorder may spend a lot of money, use recreational drugs, consume alcohol, and participate in dangerous and inappropriate activities.
For more on the differences between mania and hypomania, click here.
an inability to enjoy activities or interests that usually give pleasure
difficulty focusing and remembering
irritability
sensitivity to noises, smells, and other things that others may not notice
an inability to face going to work or school, possibly leading to underperformance
In severe cases, the individual may think about ending their life, and they may act on those thoughts.
Suicide prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
Listen to the person without judgment.
Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours per day at 800-273-8255. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can call 800-799-4889.
If a “high” or “low” episode is very intense, the person may experience psychosis. They may have trouble differentiating between fantasy and reality.
According to the International Bipolar Foundation, psychosis symptoms during a high include hallucinations, which involve hearing or seeing things that are not there and delusions, which are false but strongly felt beliefs. A person who experiences delusions may believe they are famous, have high-ranking social connections, or have special powers.
During a depressive or “low” episode, they may believe they have committed a crime or are ruined and penniless.
It is possible to manage all these symptoms with appropriate treatment.
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A person may receive a diagnosis of one of three broad types of bipolar disorder. According to NAMI, symptoms occur on a spectrum, and the distinction between the types is not always clear-cut.
Bipolar I disorder
For a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder:
The individual must have experienced at least one manic episode.
The person may have had a previous major depressive episode.
The doctor must rule out other disorders, such as schizophrenia and delusional disorder.
Bipolar II disorder
Bipolar II disorder involves periods of hypomania, but depression is often the dominant state.
For a diagnosis of bipolar II disorder, a person must have had:
one or more episodes of depression
at least one hypomanic episode
no other diagnosis to explain the mood shifts
A person with hypomania may feel good and function well, but their mood will not be stable, and there is a risk that depression will follow.
People sometimes think of bipolar II disorder as a milder version. For many, however, it is simply different. As NAMI indicate, people with bipolar II disorder may experience more frequent episodes of depression than people with bipolar I disorder.
Cyclothymia
The National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom note that cyclothymia has similar features to bipolar disorder, but the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) classifies it separately. It involves hypomania and depression, but the changes are less intense.
Nevertheless, cyclothymia can impact a person’s daily life, and a doctor can provide treatment.
A medical professional will diagnose bipolar disorder using criteria set out in the DSM-5.
The National Institue of Mental Health (NIMH) explain that in order to receive a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder, a person must have had symptoms for at least 7 days, or less if symptoms were severe enough to need hospitalization. They may also have had a depressive episode lasting at least 2 weeks.
To receive a diagnosis of bipolar II, a person will have experienced at least one cycle of hypomania and depression.
A doctor may carry out a physical examination and some diagnostic tests, including blood and urine tests, to help rule out other causes.
It can be challenging for a doctor to diagnose bipolar disorder, as people are more likely to seek help with a low mood than a high mood. As a result, it can be hard for them to distinguish it from depression.
If the person has psychosis, a doctor may misdiagnose their condition as schizophrenia.
Other complications that may occur with bipolar disorder are:
NIMH urge healthcare providers to look for signs of mania in the person’s history, to prevent misdiagnosis. Some antidepressants can trigger mania in susceptible people.
A person who receives a diagnosis of bipolar disorder has a lifelong diagnosis. They may enjoy long periods of stability, but they will always live with the condition.
The doctor may need to adjust the medication over time. Some drugs have side effects, and they can affect individuals differently. If an individual has concerns about their drug treatment, they should talk to their doctor.
A person must:
tell the doctor about any other mediations they are using, to reduce the risk of interactions and adverse effects
follow the doctor’s instructions regarding medication and treatment
discuss any concerns about adverse effects, and if they feel the treatment is working
continue taking medication unless the doctor says it is safe to stop
bear in mind that the drugs can take time to work
If the person discontinues their treatment, symptoms may worsen.
Psychotherapy and counseling
Psychotherapy can help relieve symptoms and equip a person to manage bipolar disorder.
recognize and take steps to manage key triggers, such as stress
identify early symptoms of an episode and take steps to manage it
work on factors that help maintain a stable mood for as long as possible
engage the help of family members, teachers, and colleagues
These steps can help a person maintain positive relationships at home and work. For children and teens with bipolar disorder, a doctor may recommend family therapy.
establishing a regular sleep pattern and taking steps to prevent sleep disturbance
getting regular exercise
Some people use supplements, but it is essential to discuss this with a doctor first. Some alternative remedies can interact with the drugs used for bipolar disorder. They may make symptoms worse.
Bipolar disorder is a relatively common but serious mental health condition that involves changes in mood, energy levels, and attention, alongside other symptoms.
It can severely disrupt a person’s life, but treatment can drastically improve the outlook.
Treatment may not eliminate mood changes entirely, but working closely with a doctor can make symptoms more manageable and maximize quality of life.
Find a therapist from BetterHelp’s network of therapists for your everyday therapy needs. Take a quiz, get matched, and start getting support via phone or video sessions. Plans start at $60 per week + an additional 10% off.
