All of us have experienced anxiety at some point. However, people with anxiety disorders often experience fear, constant worry, and uneasiness, even in relatively non-threatening situations. Dealing with anxiety can be difficult, as it can cause significant interference in daily life. People suffering from anxiety may sometimes even feel that their symptoms aren’t real or that they’re only in their heads. While such a belief may be common due to the stigma associated with anxiety and mental health in India, it is only a myth. In fact, calling anxiety ‘a figment of imagination or ‘an illusion’ can only make treatment-seeking more difficult, which may in turn aggravate symptoms in the long run.
Understanding Anxiety and its Symptoms
Anxiety is a complex disorder, but at its core, it is a natural and emotional response to stress or perceived threats. Anxiety can be very distressing, as it impacts an individual both physiologically and psychologically. Here are some physical and psychological symptoms of anxiety.
Physical Symptoms
- Increased heart rate
- Feelings of nausea
- Feeling weak or tired
- Stomach Issues
- Acid- reflux
- Sweating or Trembling
Psychological Symptoms
The psychological symptoms of anxiety might be difficult to understand for others, as they may not be outwardly visible all the time. Although the individual suffering from them can seek help by sharing their symptoms with others, Some psychological symptoms of anxiety are:
- Constant Worry
- Feeling nervous or restless
- Unable to concentrate or focus
- Avoiding situations that are likely to trigger anxiety
- A feeling of constantly ‘being on the edge’
- Difficulty controlling or managing anxious thoughts
What Causes Anxiety?
Anxiety is often a result of environmental and genetic factors. An individual’s personality or other medical conditions can sometimes influence their anxiety. A few causes of anxiety are:
- Experiencing a traumatic event in childhood, like the loss of a parent or physical or psychological abuse. Traumatic events like relationship problems and family issues can trigger anxiety symptoms in adulthood as well.
- Having a family history of anxiety or any other mental health condition puts individuals at risk for anxiety.
- Anxiety can also be a side effect of drug or alcohol use.
Is Anxiety Curable?
Although dealing with anxiety is tough, there are tools, techniques, and medications that can help individuals with anxiety live a fulfilling life. Let’s look at a few common treatments for anxiety:
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Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a process where you collaborate with a trained mental health professional to manage symptoms of anxiety. The therapist will come up with a treatment plan that will help you cope with the triggers and symptoms of anxiety. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is commonly used for anxiety, although other therapies are effective as well.
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Medications
Psychiatrists usually prescribe anti-anxiety medications to treat anxiety. The dosage and duration of medications depend on the duration and intensity of symptoms
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Self-Help Techniques
Self-help techniques such as learning more about anxiety, identifying triggers, using relaxation techniques, and seeking support from friends and family can help manage anxiety symptoms. Although these methods work best when combined with therapy and medication,
Conclusion
Anxiety is a real and complex condition that affects individuals physically and psychologically. Calling anxiety an illusion not only invalidates the suffering of individuals with anxiety but also increases stigma, making treatment-seeking even more difficult. Individuals with anxiety can live a fulfilling life by seeking effective treatments like medication and psychotherapy. However, it’s important to note that self-diagnosis is often harmful, so only get in touch with Psychiatrist to get the right diagnosis of your symptoms.
References:
- Anxiety: Is it all in your head? (n.d.). Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved December 25, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/anxiety-disorders-is-it-really-all-in-your-head
- Can a Person With Anxiety Live a Normal Life? Anxiety Treatment. (n.d.). MedicineNet. Retrieved December 25, 2023, from https://www.medicinenet.com/can_a_person_with_anxiety_live_a_normal_life/article.htm
- How to Manage and Treat Anxiety. (n.d.). GoodRx. Retrieved December 25, 2023, from https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/generalized-anxiety-disorder/cure
- What causes anxiety problems. (n.d.). Retrieved December 25, 2023, from https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/causes/
