I recently started medicines for anxiety, but I still feel weakness, shaky hands, leg numbness/odd sensations, head heaviness and constant restlessness. Sleep has improved a little, but overthinking and physical symptoms are still there.
Is this normal in the starting days of anxiety treatment? How long does it usually take for medicines to start working properly on these symptoms?
Answers (8)
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1. Breathe Slowly
If you are feeling anxious, you are more likely to breathe faster and shallower. Sometimes, the easiest and most important thing we can do to soothe ourselves is to focus on our breathing.
Inhale slowly. Count to three as you do it. Focus on each breath. Exhale slowly. Count to three as you do it.
2. Stay In the Present
Try the 5-4-3-2-1 technique
Focus on five things around you that you can see. A pen, a bottle of water, a spot on the wall - anything.
Focus on four things around you that you can touch. Your watch, the coffee mug, the chair you are sitting on - anything.
Focus on three things you can hear. Someone speaking on their phone, the TV in the background - any external sound.
Focus on two things you can smell - Maybe itâs a charcoal pencil, a hand cream, or leftover coffee in your mug.
Focus on one thing you can taste - What does the inside of your mouth taste like? Gum, coffee?
3. Muscle Relaxation
When you are anxious, you may feel your body tense up.
Find a quiet place. Slowly tense a muscle group. Letâs say you start with your shoulders.
Breathe in while you tense your shoulders. Hold the tension for a few seconds.
Slowly release the tension and breathe out as you do it.
Do this a couple of times before moving on to the next muscle group. What this practice essentially does is it builds awareness of tension in the body and also recognizes when the body is completely relaxed.
4. Get Moving
Move your body. There is simply no way around it. When you do activities that get your heart rate up, like running, cycling, getting some exercise, or even dancing, it can literally change your brain chemistry..
5. Small Acts of Bravery
If thereâs something that makes you anxious, try tackling it in baby steps. For example, if public speaking freaks you out, start by giving a short presentation to a few friends. This can help you build confidence and manage your anxiety when it comes to bigger challenges.
6. Be Kind to Yourself
Practicing self-compassion can really help ease your anxiety. Remember, we all deserve to be cared for, and that includes taking care of ourselves.
Much love!
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Hi, how are you? Thanks for reaching out.
Yes, in the initial days of anxiety treatment it is quite common for symptoms like restlessness, shakiness, head heaviness, weakness, numb sensations, and overthinking to still continue or even fluctuate. Usually anxiety medicines take around 2 to 6 weeks to show more stable improvement, especially for physical anxiety symptoms and constant worrying. Sleep may improve first while the mind and body take more time to settle.
Try not to keep checking every body sensation repeatedly because anxiety can amplify physical feelings further. Take medicines regularly as prescribed and stay in touch with your psychiatrist if symptoms become very intense or unbearable. Recovery is often gradual, not sudden. Take therapy. You can connect with me on nine two six six seven two six zero six five.
Next Steps
Therapy will help you learn to manage your anxiety on your own
Yes, it can be normal in the initial days of anxiety treatment. Many anxiety medicines take around 2–6 weeks to show full benefit, though sleep may improve earlier. Physical symptoms like shakiness, heaviness, numbness, restlessness, and overthinking can persist for some time before gradually settling.
Continue medicines as prescribed, avoid stopping suddenly, and follow relaxation techniques, proper sleep, hydration, and regular meals. If symptoms worsen significantly or new side effects appear, consult your psychiatrist for review.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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