Anxiety
Anxiety can manifest in different ways, such as fear and a constant state of worry that something bad is going to happen. However, if you notice that these feelings are interfering with your daily life or making it difficult for you to function normally then it may be helpful to seek professional help. Symptoms of anxiety might include:
Symptoms
Excessive worry
Racing thoughts
Restlessness
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Difficulty sleeping
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
Dizziness and lightheadedness
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing this condition might include:
Family history of Anxiety
History of Anxiety
Lack of support from family and friends
Treatments
There are many treatments for anxiety disorders. Some people benefit from medication, while others choose to use behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques. Physical activity, such as walking or yoga, is also a helpful tool in managing anxiety symptoms. The good news is that there are many resources available if you’d like additional support with your recovery from professional therapists. It’s important to communicate with your doctor, as untreated anxiety can lead to more severe mental health issues.
Self-Care Practices
Anxiety can be physically and emotionally challenging. Taking care of yourself is crucial. Here are some self-care practices that can help:
Get plenty of rest: Sleep is essential; try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Take naps during the day if you feel tired.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet is important for your health and mental health.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help you stay fit and healthy.
Connect with others: Joining a support group or talking to others who have gone through similar experiences can be helpful and comforting.
Ask for help: Don't be afraid to ask for help from family, friends, or professionals. It’s important to have a support system in place.
Write down your anxious/worried thoughts.
Breathing exercises
Plan worry time.
Practice mindfulness or meditation
Remember, taking care of yourself is the first step to a healthy mental health life. So, make self-care a priority.
Seeking Help
If you're experiencing symptoms of anxiety, it's important to seek help. While it's normal to feel nervous about the future, persistent feelings of worry or panic are not normal. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by your emotions and unable to function normally because of them, talk with your doctor or a mental health professional right away. They may recommend medications or therapy that can help reduce the intensity of your anxiety. If you don’t want to take medication, there are other ways to manage your symptoms. Talk with someone who understands what you’re going through, a friend or family member who has been through this before, or a therapist or counselor specializing in mental health. Having someone else listed can be comforting and reassuring when dealing with these issues alone. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. With the right support, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy life without stress and anxiety.
Sources
Therapist Aid: https://www.therapistaid.com Huang L, Zhao Y, Qiang C, Fan B. Is cognitive behavioral therapy a better choice for women with postnatal depression? A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2018 Oct 15;13(10):e0205243. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205243. PMID: 30321198; PMCID: PMC6188757.
Disclaimer: These articles are not intended to be a replacement for therapy. These articles are for education only.
Please seek professional help for any concerns regarding mental health or medical health.
Please dial 988 if you are experiencing a mental health crisis for 24/7 crisis counselor support under the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
If you prefer text: Text "COURAGE" to 741741 for crisis text line or visit the following links: