Why Do We Feel Anxious When We're Stressed?

Anxiety is your body's way of telling you something is wrong. When you feel stressed, like before a big test or when you're in danger, your brain sends a message to your body: get ready! Your heart beats faster, your muscles tense up, and sometimes you can't think straight, this is called the fight-or-flight response.

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Examples

  1. You feel anxious before your first day at a new school.
  2. Your heart pounds when you're stuck in traffic and late for work.
  3. You freeze during a presentation even though you've practiced it.

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