Anxiety.... Please, LEAVE ME ALONE!

Anxiety is a mental health disorder that is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness concerning situations that are not immediately dangerous. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental disorders, with over 40 million people in the United States alone suffering from some form of anxiety disorder (source: National Institute of Mental Health). The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that at least 264 million people worldwide struggle with anxiety.

 

Living with anxiety can be an exhausting and often debilitating experience. Anxiety can impact every facet of life, including health, relationships, and work productivity. Many people with anxiety find it challenging to cope with day-to-day activities such as meeting new people, attending social gatherings, or even leaving their house. This can be very challenging, often leaving the person feeling alone and misunderstood.

 

One common problem that accompanies anxiety is that it can lead to feelings of isolation. People with anxiety often feel alone, unable to relate to others, and sometimes ashamed of their symptoms. This can cause them to withdraw from activities and relationships that are important to their well-being. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, people with anxiety disorders are more likely to experience depression and vice versa.

 

Living with anxiety can also impact your physical health. Anxiety is a chronic stress condition that increases heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rates. Over time, this can cause damage to the body and predispose the individual to heart disease, high blood pressure, respiratory problems, and other health complications.

 

Anxiety can also impact work productivity. People with anxiety often experience difficulty concentrating and focusing, which can be challenging for those working in high-pressure or complex occupations. Furthermore, anxiety makes it challenging for people to socialize, connect with their coworkers, and participate in group activities.

 

There are ways to deal with anxiety on a regular basis. One of the best ways to cope with anxiety is to seek professional help from a therapist or psychiatrist. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications for anxiety disorders, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines. Therapy or counseling can also help individuals work through their emotions, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and identify triggers, such as social situations or particular stimuli. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a proven treatment that uses talk therapy and sometimes includes exposure-based therapy to help people gradually overcome their fears.

 

Another way to cope with anxiety is to develop healthy habits. Getting regular exercise that incorporates aerobic and strength-training activities can help reduce anxiety levels. Additionally, meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety.

 

Social support is an essential aspect of managing anxiety. Connecting with people, such as friends, family, or support groups, can help individuals feel less alone and provide a network to rely on for support. Online platforms such as social media have brought about communities and support groups for people to connect with individuals dealing with anxiety.

 

There are also some lifestyle changes that can help reduce anxiety and its effects. For instance, one can limit caffeine and alcohol intake, keep a regular sleep schedule, and consider dietary changes that eliminate processed foods and sugars. Small lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being.

 

In conclusion, anxiety disorders are a common yet challenging mental health condition. People experiencing anxiety can experience feelings of isolation, physical health complications, and issues with work productivity. The good news is that there are effective strategies for coping with anxiety, such as seeking professional help, developing healthy habits, seeking social support, and making lifestyle changes. If you are experiencing anxiety, it's essential to know that you are not alone. Seeking help from a therapist, psychiatrist, or support group can provide the assistance needed to manage anxiety and lead a happier, healthier life.

 

Sources:

 

1. National Institute of Mental Health (n.d.): anxiety disorders Retrieved September 6, 2021, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders/index.shtml

 

2. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (2021) Facts and statistics Retrieved September 6, 2021, from https://adaa.org/about-adaa/press-room/facts-statistics

 

3. World Health Organization (2017), Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates Retrieved September 6, 2021, from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/depression-global-health-estimates