Examining the connection between anxiety and physical health is very important toward understanding how you are feeling and why. The potential impact on cardiovascular health, immune function, and chronic conditions can have a lot to do with anxiety.

Anxiety and stress can contribute to cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and more.

“Last year as time passed when I was more stressed and anxious, my blood pressure spiked because I was overwhelmed. Doing simple activities like my sport, soccer, helped a lot with it,” said freshman Camila Andreu.

Anxiety can affect breathing patterns which can lead to panic attacks/ hyperventilation as well.

“When I find myself  too anxious, there have been times where I’ve had panic attacks, but as I’ve gotten older I’ve learned how to manage,”  said sophomore Marina La Mendola.

Anxiety and depression share many symptoms, such as feelings of sadness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, and physical symptoms like fatigue or muscle tension.

People with anxiety often experience excessive worry and rumination about future events, while those with depression tend to dwell on past failures or negative self-beliefs.

“I’ve never personally struggled with severe anxiety, but some family members have so I understand how difficult it can be for someone to go through that and now knowing it can also lead to physical issues, it’s more interesting to me,”  said sophomore Ale Alvarez.

Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, regular exercise, and seeking professional help through therapy or medication can help alleviate anxiety.

ILS is fortunate to have a Guidance Department ready to help. In particular, Dr. Maria Valcourt, a psychotherapist, is on hand should you need someone to talk to for assistance. You can reach her directly through email or by stopping by the Guidance Department, located on the first floor of the 300 building.