Anxiety = Survival Mode.
Survival mode is the neurologic component, anxiety is the physiological experience. And anxiety can express itself in so DARN many ways! Both internally and/or externally!
Because externally we may not present with anxiety at all, but our internal state? The exhaustion, the headache, the heart rate – that may just paint a different picture.
Anxiety may show up externally with
- aggression & anger,
- clinginess,
- avoidance,
- running away,
- shaking,
- vomiting,
- fast and shallow breath,
- not able to inhibit behaviours,
- perfectionism,
- quick temper,
- need to control,
- need to conform,
- hyperactivity,
- lethargy
- + more
Anxiety may show up internally with
- a sense of rage,
- fear,
- exhaustion,
- digestion issues,
- increased heart rate,
- tightness,
- nausea,
- headaches,
- nervousness,
- worry,
- shut down,
- inability to focus,
- inability to talk,
- apathy,
- unable to regulate emotions
- + more
You can’t always ‘see’ anxiety.
In my own childhood, I was living all the internal characteristics, coupled with an overwhelming need to conform – which meant I was trying to be like everyone else, therefore not a single externalised anxiety-related behaviour!
Anxiety is sneaky like that – it can’t always be seen. And that’s why I’m a big fan of supporting all children to become aware of their own needs and to self regulate.
And us adults? We need to walk that talk ourselves.
PS. If you’re looking for ways to learn more, you can download my 12 Pillars of Braincare for FREE right here. https://www.allisondavies.com.au/brain-care-ebook/
PPS. You can learn more about your child’s brains by reading my previous post here: https://www.allisondavies.com.au/understanding-your-childs-brain-understanding-your-child/
Alli xx
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