Anxiety
Anna’s heart raced as she walked into the crowded party, scanning the room for a familiar face. Her palms were slick with sweat and she felt like she couldn’t catch her breath. As the night went on, Anna’s anxiety continued to build. She worried about what people thought of her, whether she was saying the right things, and if she looked okay. By the time she left the party, Anna was completely exhausted from the mental and physical strain of her anxiety. Despite her best efforts to manage her worries, Anna knew that her anxiety would always be a part of her life.
Feelings of fear, dread, and uneasiness that may occur as a reaction to stress. A person with anxiety may sweat, feel restless and tense, and have a rapid heart beat. Extreme anxiety that happens often over time may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
(As per National cancer institute)
Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders and will affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives.
Anxiety
Anxiety is distress or uneasiness of mind caused by a fear of danger or misfortune. Very often, people with anxiety also feel worried. There can also be physical symptoms, like having a headache or an upset stomach.
Anxiety is a very common human emotion and is often associated with fear, panic, and the fight or flight response.The amount of stress needed to cause anxiety will vary from person to person however, basics include: losing one’s job, the death of a loved one, or an accident, to name a few. In most people, anxiety will settle over time and one will return to normal state.
Some people suffer a lot of anxiety over a long period of time which controls them and makes their lives difficult. These conditions are called anxiety disorders and can be treated by therapy and medicine.
What Anxiety feels like?
The Loop
Anxiety can feel like being caught in a cycle of opposing emotions and sensations. You may feel like you’re constantly going back and forth, unable to find a way out.
The Need to Escape
Anxiety can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to want to escape the feelings associated with it. You may feel restless, agitated, and unable to relax. You may have trouble sleeping or find it hard to focus on daily tasks.
The Battle Within
Anxiety can create a constant struggle between rational and irrational thoughts. You may know that your fears are unfounded, but still feel powerless to overcome them. You may experience panic attacks or physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, or nausea.
Feeling Judged
Anxiety can make you feel like everyone is watching and judging you. You may feel embarrassed or humiliated, and avoid situations where you might be scrutinized or rejected. Symptoms may include blushing, sweating, or feeling like you’re being choked.
Worrying about Worst-Case Scenarios
Anxiety can cause you to imagine the worst possible outcomes for any situation. You may feel like you’re always waiting for the other shoe to drop, and find it hard to enjoy the present moment. Symptoms may include catastrophizing, ruminating, and seeking constant reassurance.
Physical Symptoms
Anxiety can have a variety of physical symptoms, including rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, sweating, and muscle tension. These symptoms may be frightening in and of themselves, leading to further anxiety and stress.
What are the types of anxiety disorders?
Panic disorder
This means you experience recurring panic attacks at unexpected times.
Phobia
This is an excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity.
Social anxiety disorder
This is an extreme fear of being judged by others in social situations.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
This means you have recurring irrational thoughts that lead you to perform specific, repeated behaviours.
Separation anxiety disorder
This means you have a fear of being away from home or your loved ones.
Illness anxiety disorder
It is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry or fear about having a serious illness
What are the types of anxiety disorders?
Panic disorder
This means you experience recurring panic attacks at unexpected times.
Phobia
This is an excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity.
Social anxiety disorder
This is an extreme fear of being judged by others in social situations.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
This means you have recurring irrational thoughts that lead you to perform specific, repeated behaviours.
Separation anxiety disorder
This means you have a fear of being away from home or your loved ones.
Illness anxiety disorder
It is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry or fear about having a serious illness
What triggers anxiety?
Anxiety can arise from different sources such as objects, activities, situations, or performance, and these triggers vary from person to person. Recognizing and understanding your specific triggers is essential for effective management.
Ways to identify your own triggers include:-
- seeking professional help from a therapist
- keeping a journal
- reflecting on past experiences
- identifying major life stressors
- talking to a close confidant
- paying attention to any physical signs.
Once you have identified your triggers, it’s important to communicate them with your therapist so they can have a better understanding of your anxiety. Explain each trigger in detail so they can comprehend the nature of the triggers and how they affect you.
Who is at risk of anxiety disorders?
Difference between Panic attack and
Generalized anxiety disorder
Panic Disorder
- Recurring panic attacks
- Fear of Going insane or losing control
- Fear of unreality (derealization) or being detach from oneself (Depersonalization)
- excessive worry about future attack
- Chest pain, trembling and shaking
- Accelerated heart rate, shortness of breath.
Generalized anxiety disorder
- excessive worry over everyday life event
- Worrisome thoughts that interfere with daily functioning
- Sleep troubles, fatigue muscle tension
- Irritability
- Felling of mind going blank or impaired concentration
- Digestive Issues.
DO NOT USE THIS SITE IF YOU ARE IN A LIFE-THREATENING SITUATION.
Use government helpline to get immediate assistance.
Copyright © 2023 The Peace Lab
Powered by The Peace Lab
Powered by The Peace Lab
Copyright © 2023 The Peace Lab
