If you are experiencing pacing, constant movements of the legs, inability to sit or stand still, rocking from foot to foot, feeling tense or uncomfortable, and feeling anxious you are experiencing restlessness. More severe symptoms of restlessness include feelings of impulsive behaviors and suicidal thoughts. (Australia, H., 2021, November 8) The following conditions that can contribute to you feeling restlessness include depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, dementia, hyperthyroidism, restless legs syndrome, illicit drug use or alcohol use. Certain medications can also cause restlessness. (Australia, H., 2021, November 8)
Another cause of restlessness is restless legs syndrome or RLS. RLS is also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease a neurological condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs. RLS is a sleep disorder that is triggered by resting and attempting to sleep and a movement condition. Individuals suffering with RLS need to move their legs to find relief to their symptoms. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2023, November 28)
Individuals suffering with RLS can also have the following: changes in mood, exhaustion and daytime sleepiness, trouble concentrating, memory issues, decreased productivity, depression and anxiety. These symptoms can disappear during times of remission. RLS is common alongside the following conditions: end stage renal disease and hemodialysis, neuropathy, sleep deprivation and other sleep conditions. These include sleep apnea, pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, use of alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2023, November 28)
There are certain lifestyle changes that will help to alleviate the symptoms like avoiding alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. Maintaining regular sleep, exercise, massages, warm baths, heating pads, using foot wraps, or vibration pads to the back or legs. Medications can be used to treat RLS like anti-seizure medication, iron supplements, opioids, benzodiazepines, and dopaminergic agents. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2023, November 28)
Restlessness like RLS is treatable. There are several treatments a doctor can recommend these include acupuncture, mental health assessment plan, or other treatments. There is more that you can do about your restlessness including self help modalities. Modalities like meditation, breathing exercises, balanced diet, exercise, walking, jogging, and others can help. Avoiding caffeine, poor diet, alcohol, drugs, tobacco all can have an impact on your mental health. (Australia, H., 2021, November 8)
References:
Australia, H. (2021, November 8). Feeling restless. Www.healthdirect.gov.au. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/feeling-restless
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2023, November 28). Restless Legs Syndrome | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Www.ninds.nih.gov. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/restless-legs-syndrome