Many people think that Anxiety and Depression go hand in hand. While it possible to have both, they are completely different disorders. Anxiety is not one simple thing. It is possible to feel anxious without having anxiety, but it’s better to check with a therapist or Doctor.
So, what do we know about Anxiety? It’s a stress response to something we perceive as dangerous. This is a natural response. I know what you’re thinking, how can something that is a natural response also be a disorder? The difference is the answer to the question, does it interfere with your life? If it’s yes, then you could have chronic anxiety.
Symptoms can vary and can fall into any of the following categories:
- Behavioral
- Emotional
- Cognitive
- Physical
Behavioral symptoms would include avoiding situations that cause fear and social withdrawal. Restlessness can also occur.
Feelings of impending doom or dread and excessive worry, apprehension, and fear are emotional symptoms.
Having difficulty thinking or incessant negative thoughts are the cognitive effects.
Physical symptoms include stomach and intestinal disorders, rapid heart rate, shaking, and dizziness.
Those with anxiety disorder would greatly benefit from developing coping mechanisms to help.
- Therapy is highly successful in learning how to spot negative behaviors and the thoughts behind them. Therapy can provide helpful tools that reduce stress and help keep anxiety at bay. Therapists can help with relaxation techniques. Many affordable meditation and relaxation apps are available.
- Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants can help with management of your symptoms.
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle is a good long-term tool in keeping anxiety symptoms under control. Exercise, diet, and sleep are all good ideas in general, but essential for those suffering from anxiety.
- Isolation can feed into anxiety. Having a strong support system can greatly benefit. Not everyone has family or friends that they can depend on. There are online support groups. A quick Google search will show you groups in your area or online ones you can join.
Learn what you can about anxiety. Many legitimate online resources exist, but talking with your doctor is the best.
You can always contact SAMSHA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
Take care!
The Life of a Black Sheep 