Anxiety is the most common disorder that affects a lot of Americans today according to the American Psychiatric Associations. As an indiviual, I also struggle with anxiety and find it hard to deal with it in my everyday life.
What is anxiety? Anxiety is the feeling of fear, dread and uneasiness. This can be a normal reaction to stress, like feeling anxious with a problem at work, before taking a test, or before making an important decision. Anxiety can help give that boost of motivation and energy to get through that day. Anxiety can become an issue it doesn't go away and gets worse over time. This is called an anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders can interfere with everyday tasks such as job performance, school and even relationships.
Whats the difference between normal anxiety and anxiety disorders? Normal anxiety is when the feeling of fear is temporary and you don't feel overwhelmed with this feeling. Anxiety disorders are the opposite, the feeling of fear is not temporary can be very overwhelming to deal with.
But, isn't there a way we get rid of our anxieties? Unfortunately no, there is no cure for anxiety. Anxiety is a normal stress that can beneficial in certain situations. It can alert us when were in danger, and help us prepare and pay more attention. Anxiety is normal and affects nearly 30% of adults (APA).
If it's normal, how can I live with my anxiety without it controlling my life? The negative effects of anxiety disorders make it very hard for individuals to live. Some people may isolate becasue their anxiety, some people may struggle with physical stress of vomiting, chest pains, tremors and more. Whether this stress is mental, physical or emotional, there are ways you can combat it provided in the link below. When dealing with anxiety, remember, that everybody is affected by it whether good or bad. It's normal.
Great post!
Great article on the difference between normal anxiety and anxiety disorders.
WOW this was really interesting!!!!