Anxiety on vacation? 3 factors that can trigger it

Maybe many don’t know that some environmental factors in the summer can increase anxiety and discomfort in those who already suffer from it. We talked about it with Professor Giampaolo Perna , head of the Humanitas San Pio X Center for Anxiety and Panic Disorders.

Why can anxiety increase in summer?

In summer, the temperature, the intensity of sunlight and the hours of daylight increase. These three factors can create a sense of tension and alarm in the body of those who already suffer from panic attacks, and as in a vicious circle, heat and humidity increase insomnia, stress and fatigue which fuel anxiety. Symptoms that can be accompanied by a feeling of general malaise , with difficulty breathing, sweating, tachycardia and lowering of blood pressure, tiredness and feeling faint which increase the fear of a panic attack.

Can taking an anti-anxiety medication help?

If it can immediately give the feeling of momentary relief, in reality in the long run the most common anxiolytics, such as benzodiazepines, end up making the disorder chronic . Therefore, it is better not to take them, but to be aware and remember that, in the summer, heat, light and humidity can make the life of those suffering from anxiety a little more complicated.

Can we break this vicious circle and enjoy the summer holidays?

You can manage the anxiety attack, which is often short-lived and passes quickly. Some breathing techniques , but also sport help a lot, such as slowing down breathing or, when anxiety appears, taking a quick jog.

Any tips to prevent an anxiety attack on vacation?

Anxiety can be managed and controlled with a little planning and a healthy lifestyle . For example, plan pleasant but not stressful activities to do every day to keep busy, but also increase the moments of rest and relaxation, perhaps in the pool or at the sea, thus also trying to manage the effects of the heat on the body. Finally, drink plenty and eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.