What is anxiety? What are some symptoms of anxiety?
Are you feeling worried about a problem at work, do you get a nervous feeling in your stomach thinking about certain things, do you get nervous about driving in a thunderstorm? Do you get a panicked feeling waiting for the results of a big test or from a doctor’s visit? The fact is tension, every day stress big or small, in children or adults can be classified as some sort of anxiety and overtime can lead to higher levels of anxiety. For most people feelings of anxiety come and go, only lasting a short time, but unfortunately for some people, the feeling of stress or tension (a.k.a. anxiety)is more than just passing worries or stress from everyday life. Sometimes anxiety may not go away for many weeks, months or years. Over time it can worsen, sometimes so severe that it starts to interfere with daily life.
Some of the symptoms that may be classified as anxiety
- Feeling tense, apprehensive, the feeling of risk or fear.
- Fast breathing, increased pulse rate, Hyperventilation, perspiring from worrying thoughts or surroundings.
- Restless night sleep, inability to fall asleep at night because of certain thoughts or fears.
- Constant thoughts of worry that cause the inability to focus on task or projects at work
- Worrying thoughts that cause stomach cramping or gastrointestinal issues, loss of appetite, or overeating.
- Fear of being watched or stared at in public places, fear of public speaking or making small talk at social events. Fear of having to give that big speech or lecture at school or work.
Now you know some of the symptoms , and remember this is just some of the things that can cause anxiety and stress.
Here are the top 6 commonly diagnosed types of anxiety
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(Gad) generalized anxiety disorder
Generally a person who worries constantly about different things or is anxious about certain situations or things on a daily basis that last six months or more.
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Social anxiety
Someone who has the fear of being around large groups of people other than their closest friends or family. Making small talk with unknown people or in social gatherings. Someone who worries about humiliation during public speaking, or even eating in public.
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Specific phobias
Someone who is worried or afraid of certain objects, places, or events.
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
This type of anxiety happens to someone that has gone through or experienced some sort of traumatic or life-changing experience ( e.g. accident, physical trauma, war, disaster)
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Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Someone who feels the need to repeat certain behaviors or routines, Or has certain thoughts repeatedly that lead the two behaviors to react to one another causing a cycle of obsessive compulsion.
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Separation anxiety
Common in the first 18 months of childhood development when children are separated from their parents or guardians. Also can be common in pets when the pets and the owners are separated
Final thoughts
Getting help or dealing with your anxiety quickly is the best way to help prevent future anxiety attacks.
Here are a few things you can do to help reduce anxiety.
Meet up with friends, join a self help or support group. These are great ways to share your worries or fears with loved ones or others in a similar situation.
Practice meditations or relaxation techniques. Sitting quietly and focusing on breathing deeply and slowly is a great way to start.
Exercise is a great way to release stress and anxiety. Aim for at least 30 min of moderate exercise. Walking, running, bike riding, body weight movement ; like squats, pushups, and pull-ups are all great ways to blow off some steam.
Get a great night’s sleep! Give your brain a chance to relax so aim for a minimum of 7 hours per night.
Avoid things like caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine as these things generally can trigger anxiety or panic attacks.
Remember to take deep breaths. Visit your doctor if you feel you need help.
