ASMR for Anxious Times

The whole world is experiencing the effects of COVID-19 right now, and for some, this may reinforce anxiety that they already knew they battled with and for others, this testing situation may trigger anxiety that they never knew they had.

So how do you recognize if you suffer from anxiety?

Anxiety is simply the body’s response to stress.

A response to something we think is a threat.

Have you heard of ‘fight, flight or freeze’?

This our caveman response to DANGER. And it’s triggered by our hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones prepare us for the danger we are about to face, making sure we can react quickly, sending blood to the organs we will need the most – our heart starts beating faster in order to get the blood there!

Unfortunately, we do not have control over our ‘fight, flight or freeze response’.

Anxiety can vary in severity and some people may experience full-blown anxiety disorders.

Common symptoms include:

• Sweating

• Chest pain

• Palpitations

• Rapid heatbeat/ pounding heart – increased heart rate

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

• Numbness

• Choking or difficulty swallowing

• Dry mouth

• Nausea

• Diarrhoea

• Peeing frequently

• Restlessness

• Muscle aches

• Avoiding situations

• Compulsive behaviour like checking things

• The need to escape a situation that causes discomfort fear and worry

• Racing mind

• Poor concentration

• Irritability

• Feeling on edge

• Nervousness

• Sleep disturbances

• Intrusive thoughts/repetitive thoughts/ rumination

I’m sorry if you have been experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.

The following videos have genuinely helped me through panic attacks. and general anxiety, I hope they can bring you comfort too.

Hi I'm Elísabet

She has the most soothing Icelandic accent, and the best sense of humour! In this video, she's here to help you with your panic attack...

AmandineTheWolf

Has a tingly French accent and is here to help you overcome your anxiety...

Michael Sealey

Is a master of meditation. His intention is to help you create a calmer mind and this session is right up your street if you find yourself worrying a lot...

Remember, please speak to a trained professional if you recognize any of the symptoms of anxiety to be true for you and if the symptoms are impacting your daily life.

Useful websites for information about anxiety:

Mental Health Foundation

Mind NHS

Samaritans