LifestyleHand numbness: a physical sign of neurosis in the face of modern challenges

Hand numbness: a physical sign of neurosis in the face of modern challenges

The cause of numbness in hands can lie in the psyche.
The cause of numbness in hands can lie in the psyche.
Images source: © Getty Images | feliks szewczyk

12 February 2024 03:22

The modern world throws numerous challenges our way which can have a negative impact on our mental health. Neurosis, one of the most prevalent mental health disorders, often presents a range of physical symptoms, including hand numbness. While this could be indicative of various physical illnesses such as neuropathies, cervical spine pathology, or carpal tunnel syndrome, it is frequently linked to psychological factors.

To begin with, constant anxiety, fear, and stress are characteristics of neurosis. Individuals who suffer from this disorder often experience physical symptoms, among which hand numbness is common. The mechanism that triggers this symptom is complex.

A plausible explanation could be the overstimulation of the sympathetic system— responsible for the "fight or flight" response in stressful situations. This reaction is a natural adaptive response to threats, however, in neurotic individuals, over-activation of this system can result in several physical symptoms. Perpetual tension can exert pressure on nerves, leading to numbness and a tingling sensation in the hands. Furthermore, neurosis often correlates with muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and hands.

So, numbness in the hands, rather than being merely an inconvenient physical symptom, might indicate that your body is subjected to severe stress and tension. Acknowledging neurosis as a potential origin of this symptom can guide effective intervention and enhance quality of life. Thus, instead of overlooking hand numbness, it's worthwhile taking steps to comprehend and manage this condition, via both self-observation and professional therapeutic assistance.

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