Can somatic symptoms of anxiety disorder heal on their own?

Anxiety disorder with mild somatic symptoms may resolve spontaneously, while moderate to severe cases are unlikely to self-resolve. Individuals with mild symptoms experience only slight and occasional discomfort that does not interfere with daily functioning; their symptoms may gradually improve through self-regulation. In contrast, those with moderate to severe symptoms suffer frequent and intense physical discomfort accompanied by persistent distress, requiring professional intervention for improvement. If somatic symptoms persist for more than three months or worsen, timely medical consultation is recommended.

Patients with mild symptoms triggered by short-term, identifiable factors may find that anxiety and related somatic manifestations—such as mild dizziness or occasional palpitations—gradually subside after the triggering factors are removed, through stress management, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and other self-regulation strategies, without the need for extensive intervention.

However, patients with severe symptoms—such as persistent chest tightness, intense headaches, or frequent gastrointestinal disturbances—or those facing long-term stressors (e.g., chronic stress or personality-related factors), especially if they have limited capacity for self-regulation, are likely to develop chronic or worsening somatic symptoms. These individuals cannot rely on self-management alone and require professional treatment to gain symptom control.

Maintain moderate daily exercise to relieve stress, communicate regularly with family and friends to vent emotions, avoid excessive focus on bodily sensations, eat a light diet avoiding stimulative foods, and maintain regular sleep patterns to support overall physical and mental stability.