Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension or concern about something or someone. It comes along with feelings of uneasiness, tension, suspense, fear, angst and sometimes stress. It is the body’s way of responding to danger or threatening situations. Anxiety is a normal part of life, we experience it all the time, at work, at home, at school.
Anxiety can be caused by environmental factors, experiences such as stress at home, work or society, traumatic experiences, or loss of a loved one. Substance abuse can also trigger anxiety. Medical conditions like stress from a particular ailment or symptoms of an ailment may also manifest as anxiety.
However, When anxiety constantly remains even after the situation that caused it has ceased then anxiety becomes a problem referred to as anxiety disorders. It can last for at least six months.
There are various types of anxiety disorders, some of which are: Panic disorder (also known as anxiety attack), phobia, social anxiety disorder, generalized Anxiety disorder. The disorder may be caused by a physical illness, or substance abuse. Each anxiety disorder has its own peculiar symptoms but generally, the primary symptom of anxiety disorders is: a constant and overwhelming fear in situations that normally should not be a cause for alarm, such as fear of driving, or making new friends or eating a particular meal.
There are several physical and emotional symptoms associated with this condition. They include:
- Fear, feeling of apprehension,
- Pounding heart, and sometimes shortness of breath,
- Unusual sweating,
- Restlessness, irritability,
- Sleeping disorders such as insomnia,
- Weakness, headaches.
- Having trouble concentration, feelings of tension and dread,
Anxiety disorders can be treated. They are majorly treated using medications and therapy. The following health tips can help fight anxiety disorders:
- Get adequate sleep and rest: Sleep deprived people are quite vulnerable to unnecessary anxiety.
- Health eating: It seems like many health challenges can be resolved just by ensuring you eat healthy. The place of healthy eating in the health of an individual can not be overemphasized. It is important that you eat healthy when you have anxiety disorders because lack of adequate food in your body system can lead to low blood sugar, which can trigger more anxiety.
- Regular exercise and relaxation: Taking time out to exercise can help reduce the effect of anxiety disorders as it is a natural stress reliever.
- Stay away from alcohol, nicotine and too much caffeine. They can also lead to more anxiety.
Whenever you notice any of these symptoms or any other symptom of anxiety, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Avoid self-medication as treatment for anxiety disorders, it can be habit-forming, that is addictive and at that point, that does more harm than good.
