Anxiety Attack

The Holiday Season and Anxiety

The holiday season, often associated with merry celebrations and gatherings, can paradoxically bring about feelings of unease and apprehension in some individuals. This phenomenon is not uncommon and can be attributed to a variety of factors, from the pressures of gift-giving to the expectations of social interactions.

Identifying Holiday Anxiety Triggers

Understanding what triggers your holiday anxiety is the first step towards effective management. Common triggers include:

1. Financial Stress

The financial burden of holiday shopping and increased expenses can lead to anxiety. Our article provides practical tips for creating a budget and sticking to it.

2. Social Obligations

The numerous social events and gatherings can be overwhelming. We offer guidance on how to manage your social calendar and set boundaries when necessary.

3. Family Dynamics

Family interactions during the holidays can sometimes be stressful. Our experts provide insights into dealing with family-related stressors and maintaining healthy boundaries.

4. Travel Concerns

Holiday travel can induce anxiety due to logistical challenges. We discuss strategies to make your holiday travels smoother and less stressful.

5. Perfectionism

The pursuit of creating a “perfect” holiday experience can lead to anxiety. Our article emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfections.

Coping Mechanisms and Techniques

Managing holiday anxieties requires a toolbox of coping mechanisms. Here are some strategies we recommend:

1. Mindfulness and Meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you stay present and reduce anxiety. We delve into mindfulness exercises and provide guidance on incorporating meditation into your daily routine.

2. Breathing Techniques

Effective breathing techniques can instantly alleviate anxiety. We explain various breathing exercises that can be practiced discreetly in any situation.

3. Time Management

Properly managing your time during the holidays is essential. Our article provides tips on efficient time management to reduce stress.

4. Self-Care

Self-care is crucial during the holiday season. We discuss the importance of self-care and offer practical self-care tips to implement.

5. Seeking Professional Help

For those experiencing severe holiday-related anxiety, seeking professional help is essential. We highlight the significance of consulting with mental health professionals and provide guidance on finding the right support.

Holiday Anxieties

In conclusion, holiday anxieties are a real concern for many, but with the right strategies and coping mechanisms, they can be effectively managed. Our comprehensive guide offers insights, tips, and techniques to ensure a stress-free and joyful holiday season. Remember, you don’t have to navigate holiday anxieties alone; support and resources are available to help you enjoy the festivities with peace of mind.

Anxiety in Children and Teenagers

Anxiety among youngsters is a growing concern in today’s fast-paced world. It is crucial to acknowledge that children and teenagers can indeed experience anxiety. Let’s take a brief look into the various aspects of anxiety in young minds.

What Is Childhood Anxiety?

Childhood anxiety refers to excessive worry, fear, or nervousness experienced by children and teenagers. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as separation anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, or generalized anxiety disorder.

Recognizing the Signs

Identifying anxiety in children and teenagers can be challenging, as they might not always express their feelings openly. Look out for subtle signs like:

  1. Restlessness: Children may become fidgety or unable to sit still.
  2. Irritability: Sudden mood swings or irritability can be indicators.
  3. Sleep Issues: Anxiety often leads to sleep disturbances like insomnia or nightmares.
  4. Physical Symptoms: Complaints of headaches or stomachaches with no apparent cause.
  5. Avoidance: Children might avoid situations or places that trigger anxiety.

Why Does Anxiety Happen?

Anxiety can result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. High-stress environments, traumatic events, or a family history of anxiety can contribute to its development.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Recognizing anxiety in children and teenagers is crucial for their well-being. Early intervention can prevent long-term emotional and psychological consequences. Seeking professional help is vital if anxiety persists and interferes with daily life.

How to Support Anxious Youth

  1. Open Communication: Encourage open discussions about their feelings and fears.
  2. Professional Help: Consult a mental health professional for guidance.
  3. Stress Management: Teach stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness.
  4. Healthy Lifestyle: Promote a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep.

Recognize the Signs

In conclusion, children and teenagers can undoubtedly experience anxiety. It is our responsibility as caregivers, parents, and educators to recognize the signs, provide support, and seek professional help when needed. By addressing anxiety in youth, we can help them grow into emotionally resilient individuals who can navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

Remember, your support and understanding can make a significant difference in the lives of anxious children and teenagers.

anxiety symptoms

In our fast-paced world, it’s no surprise that anxiety has become an increasingly common concern. But what exactly is anxiety, and how can you recognize its symptoms? Let’s take you on a journey through the intricate world of anxiety, from its definition to practical ways of managing it.

The Basics of Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, a built-in alarm system that triggers the body’s “fight or flight” response. It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious before a big presentation or a job interview. However, when anxiety becomes chronic and overwhelming, it can be classified as an anxiety disorder.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD is characterized by excessive worry and fear about everyday situations. Symptoms may include restlessness, muscle tension, and difficulty concentrating.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, accompanied by intense fear and physical symptoms such as a racing heart and shortness of breath.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, involves an intense fear of social situations and scrutiny by others.

Specific Phobias

Specific phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects or situations, like heights or spiders.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Anxiety doesn’t always manifest in the same way for everyone, but some common symptoms include:

  • Excessive Worry: Constantly thinking about worst-case scenarios.
  • Restlessness: Feeling on edge or unable to relax.
  • Irritability: Becoming easily agitated.
  • Muscle Tension: Physical symptoms like muscle tightness or headaches.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
  • Panic Attacks: Sudden, intense episodes of fear.
  • Avoidance Behavior: Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety.

Coping Strategies

1. Mindfulness Meditation

Practicing mindfulness meditation can help you stay in the present moment, reducing anxiety about the future.

2. Regular Exercise

Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day.

3. Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet can have a significant impact on your mood and anxiety levels. Limit caffeine and sugar intake.

4. Breathing Techniques

Deep breathing exercises can help calm your nervous system during anxious moments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What causes anxiety disorders? A: Anxiety disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

Q: Can anxiety be cured? A: While there’s no one-size-fits-all cure for anxiety, it can be effectively managed with therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Q: Is anxiety a sign of weakness? A: Absolutely not. Anxiety is a common human experience, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Q: Can children have anxiety disorders? A: Yes, anxiety disorders can affect people of all ages, including children and adolescents.

Q: What’s the difference between anxiety and stress? A: Stress is a response to a specific situation, while anxiety is a more generalized, ongoing feeling of unease.

Q: Are there natural remedies for anxiety? A: Yes, natural remedies like herbal supplements, yoga, and aromatherapy can complement traditional treatments.

Understanding “What is anxiety and what are its symptoms?” is the first step towards managing and overcoming it. By recognizing the signs, seeking help when needed, and adopting coping strategies, you can regain control over your life and find peace in a sometimes-anxious world.

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Simple Breathing Techniques

In today’s fast-paced world, dealing with anxiety has become a common challenge for many. The good news is that there are effective and accessible techniques that can help alleviate anxiety, and they all start with the simple act of breathing. Let’s explore various breathing techniques that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. The Connection Between Breathing and Anxiety
  3. Diaphragmatic Breathing
    • Understanding Diaphragmatic Breathing
    • How to Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing
  4. Box Breathing
    • What is Box Breathing?
    • Steps to Practice Box Breathing
  5. 4-7-8 Technique
    • The Science Behind the 4-7-8 Technique
    • Practicing the 4-7-8 Technique
  6. Mindful Breathing
    • Incorporating Mindfulness into Breathing
    • Guided Mindful Breathing Exercise
  7. Alternate Nostril Breathing
    • Balancing Energies with Alternate Nostril Breathing
    • How to Perform Alternate Nostril Breathing
  8. Conclusion
  9. FAQs
    • Can these techniques be practiced anywhere?
    • How often should I practice these techniques?
    • Can children benefit from these breathing techniques?
    • Is there a right time of day to practice these techniques?
    • Can I combine these techniques with other relaxation methods?

The Connection Between Breathing and Anxiety

Before we move into the techniques, it’s important to understand the connection between our breath and our mental state. When anxiety strikes, our breath often becomes shallow and rapid, which can further exacerbate feelings of unease. By intentionally adjusting our breathing patterns, we can send calming signals to our brain and activate the body’s relaxation response.

Diaphragmatic Breathing

Understanding Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, involves using the diaphragm to take deep, slow breaths. This technique engages the diaphragm muscle, located just below the lungs, to promote optimal oxygen exchange.

How to Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing

  1. Find a quiet and comfortable space to sit or lie down.
  2. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen.
  3. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise as you fill your lungs.
  4. Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your abdomen fall.
  5. Continue this pattern for several minutes, focusing on the rise and fall of your abdomen.

Box Breathing

What is Box Breathing?

Box breathing is a technique that involves equal parts of inhaling, holding the breath, exhaling, and holding again – each for a specific count. This method helps regulate your breath and calm your nervous system.

Steps to Practice Box Breathing

  1. Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight.
  2. Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
  3. Hold your breath for a count of four.
  4. Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four.
  5. Hold your breath for another count of four.
  6. Repeat this sequence for a few minutes, gradually increasing the count if comfortable.

4-7-8 Technique

The Science Behind the 4-7-8 Technique

The 4-7-8 technique, pioneered by Dr. Andrew Weil, taps into the body’s natural relaxation response. It helps calm the mind and reduce stress by extending the exhalation phase of the breath.

Practicing the 4-7-8 Technique

  1. Begin by exhaling completely through your mouth.
  2. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose for a count of four.
  3. Hold your breath for a count of seven.
  4. Exhale completely through your mouth for a count of eight.
  5. This completes one breath cycle. Repeat for four full cycles.

Mindful Breathing

Incorporating Mindfulness into Breathing

Mindful breathing involves paying full attention to each breath, observing its sensations without judgment. This practice brings your focus to the present moment, easing anxiety’s grip on the mind.

Guided Mindful Breathing Exercise

  1. Find a peaceful place to sit comfortably.
  2. Close your eyes and take a few natural breaths.
  3. As you inhale, silently count “one.” As you exhale, count “two.”
  4. Continue this pattern up to a count of ten, then start again.
  5. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to the breath.

Alternate Nostril Breathing

Balancing Energies with Alternate Nostril Breathing

Originating from yoga, alternate nostril breathing aims to balance the body’s energies. It promotes relaxation, mental clarity, and a sense of equilibrium.

How to Perform Alternate Nostril Breathing

  1. Sit comfortably and use your right thumb to close your right nostril.
  2. Inhale deeply through your left nostril.
  3. Use your right ring finger to close your left nostril.
  4. Exhale fully through your right nostril.
  5. Inhale deeply through your right nostril.
  6. Close your right nostril again and exhale through your left nostril.
  7. This completes one round. Repeat for a few rounds.

Incorporating these simple breathing techniques into your daily routine can significantly reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Remember, breathing is a powerful tool that you can access anytime, anywhere, to find peace within yourself.

FAQs

  • Can these techniques be practiced anywhere? Yes, all these techniques can be practiced in various settings, providing quick relief from anxiety.
  • How often should I practice these techniques? Ideally, aim for a few minutes of practice multiple times a day. Consistency is key.
  • Can children benefit from these breathing techniques? Absolutely, these techniques are safe and effective for people of all ages, including children.
  • Is there a right time of day to practice these techniques? You can practice these techniques whenever you feel anxious or stressed, or incorporate them into your daily mindfulness routine.
  • Can I combine these techniques with other relaxation methods? Certainly, these techniques can complement practices like meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation.
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What is crippling anxiety

People must realize the difference between “feeling anxiety” and “having an anxiety condition.” It’s natural to feel stressed and anxious now and then; it’s part of the human experience. However, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder if you have crushing anxiety, which overpowers you to a point where you will be unable to perform daily tasks.

(more…)

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Panic Attacks While Pregnant

Despite feelings of anxiety and stress being perfectly normal for expectant mothers, panic attacks are no fun – especially when you’re already dealing with the challenges and ups and down of pregnancy. Here are the symptoms of panic attacks and a few tips to help you kick them to the curb as quickly as possible.

1. Symptoms of Panic Attacks

The symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety are the same. However, panic attack symptoms are amplified and happen suddenly. Chances are if you’re hit with intense, overwhelming feelings of anxiety for no obvious reason, you are experiencing a panic attack. Unlike anxiety, which may be a constant problem, a panic attack only lasts for up to ten minutes. Some symptoms of panic attacks include:

  • Feeling like you are unable to breathe
  • Shaking, tension or pain in your muscles
  • Feeling scared that your life may be in danger, or something terrible is going to happen
  • Sweating
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Double-vision or dizziness
  • Numbness or tingling sensation in limbs

2. Techniques for Calming Panic Attacks

Stop Panic Attacks While PregnantRemember to breathe

When you’re experiencing a panic attack, one of the first things to focus on is your breathing. Inhale slowly and deeply, and exhale completely. It may help clear your mind faster to count to three during each breath. Breathe with your stomach rather than your chest, so that your stomach moves with each and every breath.

Focus on positive thoughts

Focusing all of your attention to one positive, happy thought or object helps to ease you out of your panic attack. It can be a memory or fantasy, something in the environment, or even something you’re looking forward to in the future.

By directing all of your attention to one specific idea, your mind will stop racing to every worrisome thought and start to calm down. Keep in mind that everyone is different and you need to find what works for you. For example, while some may choose to listen to soothing music to help them with panic attacks, others may need complete silence in order for the episode to pass.

Reassure yourself

During a panic attack, it’s important to remind yourself that you and your baby are going to be okay. Although it may feel like you’re under great physical and mental harm, panic attacks are not dangerous for you or your baby.

TIP: Soothing audio can help reduce the likelihood of a panic attack.  Click here for free audio to help end panic attacks fast!

3. Long-Term Techniques for Anxiety/Panic Attacks

Diet and exercise

While it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise throughout your whole life as well as while you’re pregnant, it may also help reduce the risk of panic attacks. It is highly recommended that you avoid stimulants such as alcohol, cigarettes and even caffeine while pregnant. Not only are stimulants bad for your baby, but they can also make anxiety issues and panic attacks all that much worse.

Talk to your doctor

Contact your midwife or doctor and let them know that you are experiencing anxiety or panic attacks. Cognitive therapy is designed to help people replace their negative thoughts with realistic, positive ones. Medication under the supervision of a physician may be necessary for women experiencing panic attacks, because they are more likely to struggle with these issues postpartum.

It is so important to try to remember to relax as much as possible during a panic attack. Focus on the fact that you’ll typically start to feel better in just a matter of minutes. Countless mothers-to-be experience panic attacks. Although these attacks are uncomfortable, rest assured they won’t physically harm you or your baby.

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Someone Who Is Having a Panic Attack

When someone experiences a panic attack, it’s usually scarier for that person to go through it alone. One exception to this might be if that same individual is panicking because he or she has difficulty being around people.

If that isn’t the case and you’re with someone who is requesting assistance, there are numerous things you can do to help. These are just a few of them.

Keep Them Calm

Having a panic attack can be a very scary and confusing experience. One of the best things you can do for someone who is suffering from one of them is to help the individual stay calm. Come up with a simple activity you can do with them. This gives him or her something to focus on.

It can be something as easy as lifting your arms or counting to ten. If possible, find something that’s a bit more challenging for them to do. The sense of accomplishment they feel when they finish the task should help to make them feel more in control.

Get the Person to a Quiet Place

Getting over a panic attack is all about calming down, which can be hard to do in a noisy or chaotic location. Try to encourage the person to move to a calm and quiet place, if they are willing to do so. Consider asking if there is a certain place they’d like to relocate to and help them get there if possible. However, don’t be too forceful about it. Doing so might potentially make the situation worse.

Help Them Breathe

People who are having a panic attack tend to hyperventilate, especially if it’s the first time they are experiencing the sensation. Shallow, rapid breaths cause the amount of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream to fall. This can lead to symptoms such as headache, weakness, dizziness, or tingling in the hands and feet.

When people experience these symptoms, they often feel like they aren’t getting enough air, which causes them to hyperventilate even more. Encourage the panic attack sufferer to take slow, deep breaths by doing so yourself. Inhale slowly, count to three, then exhale slowly and repeat. Chances are good that this will have a positive effect.

Stay with the Individual

When someone is having a panic attack, they may feel like they want to be alone. But, the best thing that you can do for them is to stay with them and keep them calm. Remind them that you are there to help them. They may say things to you that are rude or aggressive, but try to keep in mind that they’re very upset and don’t mean everything that they say.

Take Care of Yourself

If the person you’re trying to calm down sees that you start to panic, it can make things even worse. It’s perfectly normal to feel stressed out or have an elevated concern for your friend during this situation. But, you need to make sure that you stay calm and in control. Quite honestly, it’s the best way to help.

Of course, these aren’t the only methods to help someone who is having a panic attack. Everyone responds to different things. If the first thing doesn’t work, try something else. The most important thing to do is to try.

Foods That Help with Anxiety and Panic Attacks

At first thought, it may not make sense that some foods actually help to reduce anxiety and panic attacks. But, luckily for those who deal with these conditions, it’s really true. Of course, there’s no way to completely eliminate the problem simply by eating and drinking certain things.

However, every little bit helps. Consider adding the following options to your diet, for best results.

Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants assist the body in keeping infections at bay. They also have something to do with mood balance and managing blood sugar more efficiently.

If you’re not especially fond of eating fruits and vegetables with your meal, why not try drinking them instead? Smoothies have been popular for years and will no doubt remain a favorite long into the future.

It’s possible to make a smoothie out of almost any kind of fruit and vegetable combination. Get a little bit creative and see what you can come up with. The choice is up to you!

Probiotics

If you aren’t familiar with probiotics, you’re certainly not alone. They are teeny-tiny specks of good bacteria that live in the intestine. One of the most popular, not to mention tasty, sources of probiotics is yogurt.

In 2011, an Irish research study revealed that when mice were fed yogurt-related probiotics, they exhibited fewer behavioral traits associated with depression, stress and anxiety. If it helps mice, think what it will do for humans. However, further research is needed.

Fish and Poultry

Fish and poultry are essential to any well-balanced diet. Each of these choices provides a wide variety of nutrients, including vitamin B, zinc and iron. Fattier fish such as salmon and flounder are rich in omega-3 fatty acids or “healthy fats.” Healthy fats promote positive function of the brain, which is said to alleviate symptoms of depression as well as anxiety.

Avoid Coffee and Caffeinated Drinks

Probably the last piece of advice you want to read is to avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks as much as possible. However, avoiding these is important when it comes to anxiety-related mental health and warding off panic attacks.

While caffeine typically helps to boost energy levels, it also inhibits levels of serotonin in your brain. When serotonin levels are lower than necessary, you start to feel irritable and depressed, even if you don’t realize it. Caffeine also keeps you awake and makes you go to the restroom more frequently. This often leads to dehydration that, in turn, can also cause depression.

If you can’t live without beverages including coffee, tea and soda, try to go the decaffeinated route to see what happens. It may take some time to get used to the switch. But, in the long run, it’s a much healthier option.

Panic attacks are certainly no fun. These episodes of extreme fear can come to life without a moment’s notice. By adapting your menu using the above tips, you’re taking a more active role at lessening the possibility of anxiety and panic attacks ruining your day.

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Overcoming Anxiety Disorders

There is absolutely nothing wrong in being anxious. When faced with a problem or a situation, people experience anxiety. Most people have the tendency to worry when trying to finish a deadline that seems impossible to beat like cramming for final exams, or when preparing for a job interview. Just like other emotions, such as fear, anger, sadness or happiness, anxiety is a normal reaction that helps a person cope and deal with the present situation. It is common and plays a significant role in relation to a person’s ability to adapt and survive. It is when anxiety gets out of hand and leads to an unreasonable fear or worry of daily activities that it becomes an anxiety disorder.

There are several types of anxiety disorder: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Recent advances in research have done a great deal in developing new ways to treat anxiety disorder. Improved therapy methods can now help people with anxiety disorders to lead full and productive lives.

Joining support groups help people by encouraging them to share their problems as well as their achievements. Opening up helps a person unload feelings that are bottled up inside. Meditation and relaxation, on the other hand, ease anxiety through its calming effect that enhances the benefits of the therapy.
Two previous studies comparing meditation to other relaxation techniques had been reviewed to reveal that both alternative therapies were equality effective in reducing anxiety. The first study compared meditation with biofeedback, while the second study compared mindfulness meditation to yoga.
Transcendental meditation involves focusing the mind on an object to achieve stillness. EMG (electromyography) biofeedback measures muscle relaxation and teaches people to control their own level of muscle relaxation. Mindfulness meditation teaches awareness of one’s thoughts while maintaining detachment. Kundalini yoga includes a meditative form of breathing known as pranayama.

Both studies proved that meditation was comparable to other forms of relaxation therapy in reducing anxiety. However, while no side effects were associated with meditation, about 33%-44% of the participants involved in the studies dropped out, suggesting that people with an anxiety disorder may have a hard time sticking to a meditation regimen. But the small number of people involved in the studies makes it difficult to draw any firm conclusions about the effectiveness of meditation and relaxation techniques in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Further studies are recommended to determine the roles of alternative therapies in treating anxiety disorders.

Other findings are as follows:

  • All relaxation and meditation techniques resulted in improved scores on measures of anxiety, current mood, and symptoms of distress, but sleep disturbances did not improve.
  • Work, social functioning, and family relations also improved among all treatment groups, but marital relations and sex life were not affected.
  • Kundalini yoga wasn’t as effective in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders as mindful meditation, although participants who practiced this form of yoga had more improvement on scores of perceived stress and purpose in life.

At the first sign of the disorder, consult your family doctor to determine whether the symptoms that alarm you are due to an anxiety disorder, or could be another medical condition, or both.

Basic Anxiety Information

It is normal for a person to be anxious. Anxiety often triggers whenever an individual encounters distressing and aggravating experiences or events in their lives. It is basically a part of a person’s innate response to life problems and worries. Anxiety is also one way of indicating possible dangers that might happen.

However, it is no longer normal if the anxiety condition comes with extreme worrying and fear that prevents a person from living the accustomed life they would want to. When this happens, that person may have developed an anxiety disorder.

Today, having or experiencing anxiety disorders is quite common among stressed individuals. Fortunately for people diagnosed with anxiety disorders, there are already a number of compelling treatments for these types of conditions. As such, knowing the basic anxiety information will aid people in the foremost details of this disorder.

Defining anxiety disorder

Anxiety disorder generally covers different types of aberrant forms of phobias, fears, and worries. One may have sudden worrying attacks for no reason at all. A person may experience consuming panic attacks that often trigger without any warning. Anxiety may also come in the form of compulsions and obsessions, or one may develop a phobia of a situation, event , or object that normally do not bother other people.

Although anxiety disorder comes in many types and forms, it is basically the same in one thing: they are persistent and they trigger quite powerfully. The severity and cycle of these anxiety disorders can be disruptive, immobilizing, and distressing.

Signs of anxiety disorders

One of the most important aspects of basic anxiety information is to know the symptoms and signs of this condition. Anxiety disorders have varied physical and emotional symptoms.

Emotional or psychological signs include:

  1. Dread and uneasiness
  2. Avoidance
  3. Irritability
  4. Strong desire to escape
  5. Confusion
  6. Jumpiness or nervousness
  7. Insecurity

Physical symptoms include:

  1. Chills
  2. Shortness of breath
  3. Fatigue
  4. Insomnia
  5. Headache
  6. Muscle tension and aches
  7. Clammy hands
  8. Heart palpitations

The symptoms enumerated above are only a few of the common emotional and physical indications of having an anxiety disorder. Since there are quite a number of physical symptoms associated to anxiety disorders, some people tend to assume that they have health issues. Hence, it is really best to know the many physiological aspects of anxiety to avoid confusion.

Treating Anxiety

People who are suffering from anxiety disorder have really no excuse for consulting their conditions because there are a lot of acknowledged treatments today that are actually quite effective. Among the top recommended treatments for anxiety are cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication.

  • Medication
    Most doctors prescribed medications like anti-anxiety and anti-depressant drugs as short term treatments for anxiety. Medications are recommended among patients suffering from this condition as they act as supplementary treatments once other types of therapies are taken. However, anxiety drugs and medications may become addictive when abused.
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
    One very effective form of anxiety treatment is the Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or CBT. This treatment aims to change the behavior and cognition patterns of a person suffering from severe case of anxiety. This treatment is generally conducted within 12 to 20 weeks, with the patient undergoing either in an individual or group therapy.

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