Often, there are instances where one finds themselves under stressful circumstances, be it a job interview, first day at college, a flight to catch, or even a speech to deliver. There is a sense of nervousness and strong fear to apprehend. In such crucial situations, anxiety is the body’s response to stress that arises naturally. It is comprised of a blend of unpleasant emotions and cognition that can be future-oriented and much more intense than fear. It can also be linked to the worry of being unable to predict or control the future threat as and when it occurs.
However, it is possible that anxiety can add up as an adaptive value that can help an individual plan and prepare for a potential threat. It does prime a person towards achieving something or help them become efficient. Nevertheless, if restlessness, dread, and nervousness tend to get out of hand at extreme levels, further hampering daily activities, that is where an anxiety disorder may play a role.
What are Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety is the intense, persistent sense of worry and fear about everyday situations. In the case of anxiety disorders, this sense of dread stays with the individual almost every time and has repeated episodes of a sudden feeling of anxiousness or terror that may reach its peak within minutes.
Anxiety disorders prevent one from carrying out any simple activity like climbing stairs, crossing the road, or even entering the class alone. If not paid attention to, the condition can worsen.
What are the Symptoms of Anxiety?
The symptoms experienced during anxiety may vary from person to person. The feelings can range from experiencing slight nervousness to extreme palpitations that may seem out of control. Here are some of the common symptoms of anxiety:
● Increased heart rate
● Rapid breathing (hyperventilation)
● Restlessness
● Trembling
● Sweating
● Trouble concentrating
● Sleep troubles
What are the Types of Anxiety Disorders?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Worrying about general/common issues like money, family, school, travel, etc. Excessive worrying goes from every day up to daily for at least six months.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Extreme sense of fear in social/ public surroundings. It revolves around the concern of being judged by others resulting in high levels of self-consciousness to prevent significant embarrassment.
Panic Disorder: Encountering sudden bouts of panic or intense fear with no possible known fear. The attacks happen for a few minutes.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: The following may arise after exposure to a terrifying event where one encounters physical and mental threats.
Phobia: When exposed to specific situations or objects, extensive anxiety arises with a strong sense to avoid the same.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Recurrent obsessive thoughts or repetitive behaviors that are performed to prevent them from coming back and again. These acts are carried out as “rituals” to bring temporary relief.
What are the Causes of Anxiety?
The causes may vary. However, the underlying factors are genetics, stress, and environmental factors.
Conclusion
It is vital to take care of oneself and visit a counselor or psychiatrist if you experience the slightest inconvenience. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle also works wonders. However, it is always advisable to talk things out if things get out of control. Anxiety can be controlled and managed with the right therapy and lifestyle techniques. So, if you feel that your stress is hindering your daily tasks to an extreme level, it is advisable to ask for help today.
