What is a common biological response in anxiety disorders?

The fight or flight response is a fundamental biological reaction that occurs when an individual perceives a threat or stressor, which is particularly relevant in the context of anxiety disorders. This response is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system, which triggers various physiological changes to prepare the body to either confront or flee from perceived danger.

When someone experiences anxiety, their body may respond with an increase in heart rate, rapid breathing, and heightened levels of stress hormones, such as adrenaline. These changes are designed to enhance the body's ability to respond to a threat, providing the necessary energy and alertness to deal with danger. This heightened state of arousal can be beneficial in life-threatening situations but can become problematic in daily life for individuals with anxiety disorders, where the response may occur inappropriately or excessively without actual danger.

Other responses, such as increased fatigue, heightened senses, and improved memory, do not typically characterize anxiety disorders in the same way. For instance, increased fatigue may stem from the stress and worry associated with anxiety rather than being a direct biological response. While heightened senses can occur, they are not a defining biological response of anxiety disorders; instead, they could relate to acute stress. Improved memory is also not commonly associated with anxiety