Yes, there could be a reason for your strong emotional reactions while playing games like tag or any activity that involves being chased, especially considering that you have anxiety. Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can manifest in various ways, and it can be triggered by situations that others might find harmless or enjoyable.
Here are a few potential reasons for your reactions:
Fight or Flight Response: Anxiety can activate the body's "fight or flight" response, which is a natural survival mechanism designed to protect us from perceived threats. In a game like tag, your brain might interpret the chasing as a threat, triggering this response and causing physical and emotional reactions like panic attacks and crying.
Fear of Being Vulnerable: Anxiety can make individuals hyper-aware of their surroundings and potential dangers. When you're in a situation where you feel vulnerable or exposed, like being chased in a game, it can intensify your feelings of fear and panic.
Fear of Embarrassment or Judgement: Anxiety can also lead to a fear of embarrassment or being judged by others. In a social setting like playing games with friends, you might worry about how you appear to others, which can increase anxiety and emotional distress.
Past Negative Experiences: If you've had negative experiences related to similar activities in the past, your brain might associate those feelings with the current situation, amplifying your emotional responses.
Sensory Overload: The combination of physical activity, social interaction, and heightened emotions during the game might lead to sensory overload, making it overwhelming for you to cope with the situation.
Conditioning: Repeated negative experiences or avoidance of certain situations due to anxiety can lead to conditioning, where your brain associates those activities with fear and anxiety.
Given that you already have anxiety, it's important to recognize these triggers and understand how they affect you. Here are some strategies to cope with these situations:
Communication: Talk to your friends about your anxiety and how certain games make you feel. True friends will understand and accommodate your feelings.
Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques: Practice mindfulness and deep breathing exercises to help ground yourself and manage anxiety when it arises.
Seek Support: Consider talking to a mental health professional who can provide personalized strategies and support to manage anxiety in social situations.
Exposure Therapy: If you feel comfortable, you can gradually expose yourself to these situations in a controlled way to help desensitize your response over time.
Alternate Activities: Suggest alternative games or activities that you feel more comfortable participating in.
Remember that it's okay to take breaks or step away from a situation that feels overwhelming. Your mental well-being is essential, and taking care of yourself is a priority.