Why It’s Hard to Relax
Anxiety and the Constant “On Edge” Feeling
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Many people with anxiety describe feeling constantly on edge or unable to fully relax. Even when there is nothing stressful happening, the body may feel tense and the mind may continue searching for potential problems. In fact, sometimes when they make attempts to relax, they will feel like they are missing something. Relaxing becomes so foreign.
This experience is common in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders.
This experience is common in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders.
In-person sessions are provided in Tampa and virtual sessions are available throughout Florida and New York.
The Brain’s Threat Detection System
The human brain is designed to monitor the environment for potential danger. When a threat is detected, the body activates the fight-or-flight response, preparing us to react quickly.
In people with anxiety disorders, this system may become overactive, causing the brain to detect threats even in everyday situations.
This can create a persistent sense of tension and hyper-awareness.
This can create a persistent sense of tension and hyper-awareness.
Common Signs of the “On Edge” Feeling
People who struggle to relax often report:
- Feeling tense throughout the day
- Difficulty slowing their thoughts
- Trouble falling asleep because the mind won’t stop thinking
- Constantly anticipating potential problems
- Feeling restless or unable to sit still
These experiences can make relaxation feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable.
Why Relaxing Can Feel Difficult
For individuals with chronic anxiety, the mind may believe that staying alert helps prevent problems.
Relaxing may feel risky because the brain interprets it as letting one’s guard down.
As a result, the mind may continue generating worries or “what if” thoughts to stay prepared for possible threats.
Learning How to Relax Again
Treatment for generalized anxiety disorder focuses on helping individuals retrain the brain’s response to uncertainty and perceived threats.
Evidence-based treatments may include:
Evidence-based treatments may include:
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Stress management
- Assertiveness training and boundary setting
Over time, individuals can learn that it is safe to relax and that constant mental vigilance is not necessary.
We Are Ready To Help
Treatment is available via video conference or phone in New York, and via video, phone,
or in-person sessions in Tampa, Florida.
or in-person sessions in Tampa, Florida.