Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or fainting, often caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. It often feels like standing up too quickly after lying down or having low blood pressure. People who feel dizzy may also feel weak and tired.
Dizziness is common if you have an anxiety disorder, and it is important to treat your anxiety to feel better.
Dizziness related to anxiety is often caused by the fight-or-flight response, your body’s normal response to fear. In this case, physical signs of anxiety may include shaking, flushing, or sweating.
Feelings of anxiety and tension can trigger this stress response, where your brain thinks you are in danger, even if the threat is not real. Next, a cascade of stress hormones triggers an anxiety attack: rapid breathing and increased heart rate spike the oxygen levels in your blood, preparing your body to defend itself or flee. This can lead to shortness of breath, changes in blood flow, muscle tension, and dehydration, all of which play a role in anxiety-related dizziness.
What are some natural remedies for anxiety-related dizziness?
Dizziness is common if you have an anxiety disorder, and treating your anxiety is key to feeling better.
You can try these nine natural remedies to reduce anxiety and prevent dizziness:
- Exercise
Exercise is beneficial for your overall health, including your mental health. Reducing anxiety can be a benefit of regular exercise. Although it is recommended that people get 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, research shows that anxiety can be temporarily reduced immediately after a session.
Continuing to exercise regularly can also reduce symptoms of persistent anxiety.
In addition, mindfulness exercises such as yoga have been shown to have anti-anxiety effects.
- Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a method of stimulating specific points on the body, usually by inserting thin needles into the skin. However, the key to safety is to see an experienced, trained practitioner and use clean needles. If acupuncture is not performed properly or dirty needles are used, serious side effects can occur.
- Aromatherapy
Using essential oils as part of aromatherapy can be a natural way to reduce anxiety. Aromatherapy involves filling a space with the scent of a specific oil, usually derived from a plant, and inhaling it (Citrus essential oils have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety).
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in seafood, shellfish, and fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for building brain cells and supporting other basic functions. Fatty acids may also have a positive effect on anxiety.
- Vitamin B
For decades, it has been understood that there is a link between vitamin B12 levels and anxiety symptoms. Research has shown that it is not uncommon for people with anxiety to have low levels of vitamin B12. It is believed that supplementing with vitamin B12 may help reduce or prevent anxiety symptoms.
Vitamin B6 may also reduce anxiety. High doses of the vitamin have been shown to reduce anxiety.
B vitamins are generally safe to use, but they may interact with certain medications. Check with your healthcare professional to be sure before using.
- Meditation
Meditation is one of many relaxation techniques that focus on intentional breathing and the mind-body connection. It is often recommended as a supplement to clinical anxiety treatment plans.
Studies have shown that meditation can help reduce anxiety symptoms in people diagnosed with anxiety disorders by inducing a state of deep relaxation.
There are practically no risks to trying a meditation session, as long as you are in a safe environment to close your eyes and let yourself go.
- Melatonin
Melatonin, a natural substance in the body that helps promote sleep, is also available as a supplement that may be beneficial for anxiety. Research has shown that melatonin helps reduce anxiety symptoms in people undergoing surgical procedures.
- Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral found in foods such as whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and dairy that plays a role in brain function, potentially causing an anxiety-inducing effect. Magnesium supplementation has been shown to reduce symptoms of mild anxiety, generalized anxiety, and anxiety-related PMS symptoms.
- Lemon balm
Lemon balm, an herb in the mint family, has long been considered to have calming properties, which can have a positive effect on anxiety and mood.
