Anxiety
The Silent Villain
We all grew up hearing stories of superheroes and villains. With most of these tales, the villains are big and scary - making them easy to detect and even easier for the superhero to jump in and save the day. We have mental superheroes and villains as well, but there are a few key differences. In our minds, sometimes the superheroes don’t know how to fight the “bad guy,” because they are silent and invisible. You know how it goes. You’re absolutely fine the previous night, in the morning, or during the day, then suddenly, you’re faced with an overwhelming, excessive, and persistent worry and crippling fear. Advice from loved ones to “breathe” or “go to your happy place” is almost always easier said than done – and that’s not your fault!
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat, characterized by worry and commonly accompanied by physical symptoms. Anxiety is common -it is natural to have feelings of nervousness about things such as work, relationships, task lists, or about impending events. Experiencing anxiety in a stressful situation can also be a normal response. At times, anxiety can even be productive in motivating you to confront certain situations taking place in your environment, to avoid danger (as a survival mechanism), or to create meaningful change in your life. However, pervasive and persistent worry, intrusive thoughts, or chronic feelings of being “on edge” that become all-consuming and interfere with your daily functioning may be an indication of an Anxiety Disorder. According to the NIMH, an estimated 31.1% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder at some time in their lives.
The various types of anxiety are distinguished by the situations or objects that induce the fear or avoidant behavior. Types of Anxiety include:
• Separation Anxiety
• Social Anxiety
• Generalized Anxiety
• Panic Attacks
• Specific Phobias
Symptoms of anxiety may include:
• Sense of impending danger
• Excessive worry about everyday decisions
• Consumed with thoughts about the future
• Increased heart rate
• Sweating
• Feeling dizzy, nauseous, or light-headed
• Trouble sleeping
• Trouble concentrating
Anxiety can be brought on by factors such as “triggers,” which widely varies with each individual. Genetic factors, Temperament, Neurobiological factors, Childhood Parental Responses, Emotional regulation skills, Cognitive biases and distortions may predispose an individual to or protect against Anxiety Disorders.
There are a myriad ways of coping with anxiety, including staying active with hobbies, supportive social interaction, and exercise. Another way of coping with anxiety is to seek help early on.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone. While anxiety can sometimes be debilitating, there are several treatment options available including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy and Meditation, and Exposure Therapy. For some, the combination of therapy and anti-anxiety medication help them to overcome problems with anxiety.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, take action! Schedule an appointment today to book a complimentary consultation.
References
