Wait…I Have Anxiety?
Understanding Anxiety: Unraveling the Knots
As a therapist, I have encountered numerous clients grappling with anxiety and they were unaware that they were struggling with this. Some people describe feeling overwhelmed, stressed and believe they just “couldn’t handle life.” Upon further exploring their struggles and putting the word ‘anxiety’ to their experience was extremely surprising and validating to them. This ever-present mental health challenge affects people from all walks of life and can manifest in diverse ways. Understanding anxiety and its presentations is crucial in assisting individuals on their journey to healing and growth. In this blog, we will delve into what anxiety truly is and explore the various forms it takes.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, often characterized by feelings of unease, worry, and fear. In manageable doses, anxiety serves as an evolutionary mechanism, warning us of potential dangers and helping us stay alert and alive. We do need anxiety to help us meet deadlines and to avoid dangerous situations. However, when anxiety becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can be detrimental to our mental well-being, leaving us in a hyperaroused state of fight or flight. We become hypervigilent, waiting for the lion to jump out and attack us, when not everything is a lion.
Types of Anxiety
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) GAD is one of the most common forms of anxiety. Individuals with GAD experience excessive worry and fear about everyday situations. This persistent anxiety can be all-consuming, making it challenging for them to focus on daily tasks and enjoy life to the fullest.
Panic Disorder Panic disorder manifests in sudden and intense episodes of panic or fear, known as panic attacks. These attacks can be terrifying, often leading individuals to fear another occurrence, which can lead to a cycle of avoidance behaviors.
Social Anxiety Disorder People with social anxiety disorder fear judgment and embarrassment in social situations. They may avoid social interactions altogether, leading to isolation and a sense of loneliness.
Specific Phobias Specific phobias are intense and irrational fears of specific objects or situations. These fears can trigger significant distress and even panic attacks in affected individuals.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts, obsessions, and compulsions. Individuals with OCD often feel compelled to engage in repetitive behaviors to alleviate anxiety caused by their obsessions. This does not necessarily mean that you like and prefer order despite what it portrayed in the media and online. It’s a lot more nuanced than “needing order.”
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) PTSD occurs in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Recurring flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened vigilance are common symptoms. If a distressing event has occurred recently, you may be struggling with Acute Stress Disorder.
Separation Anxiety Disorder Most commonly observed in children, separation anxiety disorder is marked by excessive fear and distress when separated from caregivers or loved ones.
How Anxiety Presents Itself
An emotional experience can typically be broken down in three components: sensations (physical symptoms), cognitions (thoughts), and urges (behaviors displayed in response to the emotion.
Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, dizziness, tense muscles, and gastrointestinal disturbances. These sensations can be overwhelming and may even mimic medical conditions, leading to additional stress and worry.
Cognitive Symptoms: Anxious thoughts are often marked by a sense of impending doom, catastrophic thinking, excessive worry, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals may struggle to control these thoughts, leading to heightened anxiety.
Emotional Symptoms :Feelings of fear, nervousness, irritability, and restlessness are common emotional symptoms of anxiety. Affected individuals may experience intense mood swings and may find it challenging to manage their emotions effectively.
Behavioral Symptoms: Anxiety can lead to behavioral changes, such as avoidance of triggering situations, procrastination, substance abuse, or engaging in repetitive rituals (as seen in OCD).
Interpersonal Impacts: Anxiety can strain relationships as individuals may find it difficult to express their emotions, communicate effectively, or engage in social interactions. This may lead to misunderstandings and further isolation.
Conclusion
Anxiety is a complex mental health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can take on various forms, each presenting unique challenges for those who suffer from it. As a therapist, my mission is to destigmatize anxiety, raise awareness, and help individuals recognize that seeking professional support is a crucial step towards healing and well-being.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Reach out to a mental health professional who can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate through the turbulence of anxiety and regain control of your life. Together, we can unravel the knots that anxiety leave us and pave the way for a brighter and more fulfilling future.