Anxiety is not just “in your head”—it’s a full-body response. When your brain senses a threat (real or perceived), it activates your nervous system, releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. This is what creates symptoms like a racing heart, shallow breathing, muscle tension, and racing thoughts.

The problem is that your brain doesn’t always distinguish between real danger and everyday stressors like work, relationships, or uncertainty.