LibraryScenariosWhen exercise triggers anxiety instead of helping
Scenario

When exercise triggers anxiety instead of helping

Everyone says exercise helps anxiety but when I work out hard my heart rate goes up and it triggers panic attacks.

Patan
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Intense physical arousal can mimic panic symptoms in a sensitized nervous system, requiring gentler somatic approaches.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Anxiety — lived experience and treatment?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.