All You Need to Know About Anxiety

People that suffer from anxiety have a difficult time dealing with normal stressors such as financial problems, relationships or even being in public. In the extract below, you will learn more about anxiety and why you should seek help if you suffer from the condition.  

What Is Anxiety? What Causes It? 

Anxiety is a normal human reaction to a stressful situation. However, it becomes a problem when your response is not proportional to the perceived threat or stressor. For example, a person with an anxiety disorder can get restless, irritable, nauseated or sweaty due to a phobia, being in public or after using a specific drug. These feelings occur frequently meaning you are unable to cope with the stressor.

Anxiety is caused by personal or environmental stressors such as strained relationships or a change in your work environment. Hormonal imbalances can also cause anxiety. In some cases, anxiety is genetic. Some families have a long history of anxiety disorders. Substance withdrawal has also been known to cause anxiety. 

Symptoms of Anxiety

Below are some symptoms of anxiety:

Excessive worrying: You will find yourself worrying too much about an ordinary life situation. As a result, you will have trouble concentrating.

Excessive sweating: You may get sweaty palms, an increased heartbeat and, in some cases, a dry mouth.

Trouble sleeping.

Panic attacks: It is a sudden sensation of fear characterised by an increased heart rate, sweating, shaking or feelings of choking. It lasts a few minutes or hours. 

Managing Your Anxiety

If you suffer from anxiety, try some relaxation techniques such as taking long, deep breaths, meditation, muscle stretching or guided imagery. How do you manage your stress? Identify your stressors and teach yourself how to cope with them. For example, if you get anxious when in public, ask a close friend to accompany you to a function. He or she will keep you comfortable and distracted; hence, you do not have to get anxious.

Anxiety counselling is considered as one of the most effective ways of managing anxiety. During therapy, your counsellor will help you identify and confront your fears. He or she will then guide you on how to overcome or cope with your fears.

You could also seek medical treatment for your anxiety. Some common anxiety drugs include anti-depressants and benzodiazepines. Ask a qualified medical practitioner to prescribe a suitable drug.

People living with anxiety have a difficult time coping with ordinary situations. More often than not, they feel ashamed about their condition. However, speaking about your anxiety and seeking professional help will assist you in confronting and overcoming your fears. Contact an anxiety counselling service near you for more information.


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