Anxiety disorders

Learn about what is it, what symptoms there are, why does it happens, and what can be done to cope with it!

Written By: Rithanya Venkatesh

Anxiety is the body’s instinctual response to fear. However, anxiety is much more than a passing emotion for some; it takes over their entire lives. This is the case for those with anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are “conditions in which you have anxiety that does not go away and can get worse over time” (MedlinePlus). As a result, they often make day-to-day activities more difficult than they usually are.

People with anxiety disorders may experience symptoms both mentally and physically. This includes feeling overwhelming worry and unease, as well as dizziness, shortness of breath, and a quickened heartbeat. In turn, people experiencing these symptoms may change their regular behavior to accommodate these uncomfortable feelings. For example, one may go out of their way to steer clear of activities known to stimulate anxious feelings. Not only does this make it harder to freely navigate one’s day, but causes disruptioons in their daily routine that could possibly lead to more anxiety-inducing situations.

There are many different types of anxiety disorders, but the most commonly diagnosed is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), where one feels worry over normal, general situations in life, such as regarding work or family life. Other forms include Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and Panic Disorder. Phobias, intense fears of certain things, are also very commonly seen in people, ranging from slight to immense discomfort and fright. Different anxiety disorders entail varying symptoms and experiences for people, although they all stem from intense feelings of worry or anxiety. These disorders are diagnosed by mental health professionals, with physical exams conducted by medical professionals preceding it to ensure the health of the client.

Many treatments can be sought out for people with anxiety disorders, either with professionals or just incorporated into daily life. Talk therapy is a prominent treatment, allowing for one to seek help with a therapist to learn ways to combat fears with mindfulness. Some may be prescribed medicines to reduce symptoms and make daily life more tolerable. Meditation, exercise, proper sleep, and avoiding known triggers such as caffeine, are all ways to manage anxiety every day.

Dealing with an anxiety disorder isn’t easy, so don’t be afraid to ask for help whenever you need it! Your health is a priority, so take the steps you can, however big or small, to be your best self.

** As always, If you find yourself self harming or have friends/family struggling and are talking about possible suicide reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or call 911 to get them or you immediate help.

Work Cited

Abraham, Micah. "Here's How to Manage Anxiety." Calm Clinic, 10 Oct. 2020, www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/management.

“Anxiety.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 May 2020, https://medlineplus.gov/anxiety.html#:~:text=Anxiety%20is%20a%20feeling%20of,before%20making%20an%20important%20decision.

Northwestern Medicine. “The Science of Anxiety (Infographic).” Northwestern Medicine, https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/emotional-health/the-science-of-anxiety.

Image Credits

Tips For Anxiety. Here's How to Manage Anxiety, www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/management.