Anxiety does not always manifest itself intensely at the beginning. In some cases, it can appear disguised in common everyday behaviors, often confused with simple habits or personality traits.
6 harmless habits that can disguise "high levels of anxiety"
Anxiety does not always manifest itself intensely at the beginning. In some cases, it can appear disguised in common everyday behaviors, often confused with simple habits or personality traits. According to studies...
According to studies cited by the website YourTango, some seemingly harmless signs can indicate high levels of anxiety. Observing these behaviors can help identify the problem earlier and seek ways to control it.
1. Touching your hair frequently
Twirling strands of hair around your fingers, repeatedly touching your scalp, or keeping your hands occupied with your hair can act as a momentary way to relieve tension.
The habit can turn into a nervous tic and bring a feeling of comfort. However, when a person starts pulling out hairs, even occasionally, and has difficulty stopping, the advice is to seek professional help.
2. Going to the bathroom often
Anxiety can also increase the need to urinate. Research published in 2021 found a relationship between chronic psychological stress and urinary urgency, indicating that the problem can affect both the mind and the functioning of the bladder.
3. Checking the same thing multiple times
Returning repeatedly to check whether the door has been locked or whether the stove has been turned off may be linked to difficulty trusting one's own memory.
One of the studies cited points out that checking the same situation many times can, instead of increasing security, further reduce the person's confidence in what they remember having done.
4. Arriving too early for appointments
The need to arrive well ahead of time may be related to the fear of unforeseen events and the attempt to control factors such as traffic, weather or delays.
A study carried out in 2020 with 533 university students observed that people who had greater difficulty dealing with uncertainty also had more social anxiety and excessive thoughts.
In some cases, the behavior may also be associated with the fear of attracting attention when entering an environment late.
5. Biting your nails
Biting your nails can offer temporary relief from feelings of stress, tension, boredom, or emotional discomfort.
Although it may seem like a minor habit, when it occurs frequently it can cause injuries to the nails and surrounding skin, especially when the person is unable to control the behavior.
6. Biting your lips
Lip biting can also be a repetitive reaction used to deal with tension and uncomfortable emotions.
Just like other habits linked to the body, behavior deserves attention when it becomes frequent, causes injuries or seems difficult to stop.
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Source: Noticias ao Minuto - Ultima Hora
This story was originally published by Noticias ao Minuto - Ultima Hora. Visit the original publication for further details.
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