Anxiety. As humans, we all experience it to some degree. The feeling of anxiousness is what keeps us motivated and aware of our surroundings. Living with a healthy amount of anxiety is normal, and even beneficial to emotional well-being. Despite the importance of experiencing a little anxiety in our day-to-day, we all have different tolerance levels for stress. Some may experience anxiety to an unhealthy or even debilitating degree. We asked our professional therapists at Enhancing Behavioral Choices to answer questions that can help individuals understand and cope with anxiousness.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety presents itself in two distinct ways, which can be experienced at various levels of intensity. The first is thought-based anxiety which is when a person experiences worry internally. Often, these worrisome thoughts are not probable or rational and can be categorized as intrusive thoughts. This type of anxiety may present itself as a noise in their head, a broken record of the same negative thoughts or racing thoughts.
The second way one might experience stress is through physical anxiety. Physical anxiety presents itself as odd, uncomfortable or even frightening physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, low appetite, chest pains, shakiness, sweating, ringing ears, dizziness, racing heart, tingling in extremities or rapid breathing. This experience can mimic the feeling of a heart attack, which is why many people go to the ER for panic attacks.
What are the types of anxiety?
There are multiple forms of anxiety that can categorize the experience of individuals. Types of anxiety include performance anxiety, social anxiety and test anxiety that can be triggered by specific events such as public speaking, social settings or an upcoming exam. Generalized anxiety presents itself as a constant state of anxiousness, with no definitive triggers. Feelings of anxiousness may become so overwhelming that a person will avoid circumstances that could increase their symptoms. This can result in isolation, and cause individuals to withdraw from important activities and support systems in their lives.
How can you identify when to take action?
Levels of anxiousness that present uncomfortable physical symptoms, uncover strong negative thoughts or result in isolating one’s self should be treated. Clear signs of unhealthy anxiety may include an individual no longer participating in activities that once brought joy, trouble sleeping, a decrease in appetite or the feeling of being stuck in a cycle of negative thinking.
How can anxiety be managed and treated?
Quality self-care, wholesome nutrition, ample sleep, exercise, and a decrease of caffeine and alcohol intake are a few best practices one can implement on their own when managing anxiety. If the feeling of anxiety persists or becomes all-consuming, it’s important to pursue therapy with a licensed professional or in some cases, take medication while being overseen by a psychiatrist.
As always, EBC is here to help. If you’re experiencing intense feelings of anxiety, set up a virtual appointment today!