Let’s Be Fr…What is Anxiety?
What is Anxiety? Understanding the Basics in Simple Terms
As a clinical mental health therapist, anxiety is a term I often hear from my clients at 2BE Well Therapy. My clients have told me sentiments such as:
“My work makes me anxious.”
“I worry all the time.”
“I am afraid of not doing well.”
This truth is we all deal with worry and anxiety at one point in our lives. Many of us will attempt to manage it ourselves, while others of us will seek professional help.
Regardless of your relationship with this complex emotion, anxiety is a normal part of life. For many, anxiety is a confusing mix of feelings and symptoms that can be hard to pin down. Yet, how we deal with anxiety does not need to be convoluted.
Together, let’s break down anxiety in simple, easy-to-understand terms. We’ll explore what anxiety is, its symptoms, and how we can manage it effectively.
Our ultimate goal? To better grasp our anxious and worrisome feelings and initiate our journey toward healing.
But first, let’s be for real, what is anxiety?
Defining Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress. It’s that feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness—kind of like our body’s internal alarm system, alerting us to potential danger or threats.
This alarm can be helpful in short bursts—like when we need to dodge a speeding car or prepare for an important exam. However, when anxiety lingers and begins interfering with our daily lives, it can become a problem.
Today, anxiety is increasingly common. With the constant barrage of information, work pressures, social expectations, and the fast pace of modern life, it's no surprise that anxiety levels are on the rise.
The Physical Side of Anxiety
Anxiety manifests in different ways. Anxiousness causes our body to go through several physical changes. We might notice:
Racing Heart: Our heart beats faster, pumping more blood to our muscles to prepare for "fight or flight."
Sweating: Our body will cool itself down as it prepares for action.
Tense Muscles: Our muscles tighten up, ready to spring into action.
Shallow Breathing: Our breathing might become quicker and shallower to get more oxygen into our bloodstream.
Stomach Issues: We could feel butterflies, nausea, or even the need to go to the bathroom more often.
These natural reactions are part of our body's preparation to face a challenge or escape a threat. The physical side of anxiety is closely linked to the mental side, working together to prepare us for action.
The Mental Side of Anxiety
Anxiety doesn't just affect our bodies; it also influences our thoughts and emotions. When we’re anxious, we might experience:
Constant Worry: We might worry about things others seem to brush off. These worries can be anything from everyday tasks to big life events.
Restlessness: We may feel on edge, unable to relax or sit still.
Irritability: We feel easily frustrated or angry.
Trouble Concentrating: It might be hard to focus on tasks or remember things.
Fear: We might have an overwhelming sense of fear or dread, even without a clear reason.
Let’s be for real—dealing with anxiety is difficult, especially when we’re managing both the mental and physical struggles. Yet, by acknowledging what is happening to our bodies and understanding these symptoms, we can start giving ourselves the space to work through it.
Why Do People Get Anxiety?
Anxiety can be triggered by many different factors. Some common causes include:
Stress: Major life changes, work pressures, or family issues can all trigger anxiety.
Genetics: Anxiety can run in families, so if our parents or grandparents had anxiety, we might be more likely to experience it, too.
Personality: Some people are naturally more prone to anxiety due to their personality traits.
Health Issues: Certain medical conditions or medications can cause anxiety as a side effect.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several different types of anxiety disorders, each with its unique features. Some of the most common include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life.
Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense episodes of fear known as panic attacks.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations or being judged by others.
Specific Phobias: Extreme fear of particular objects or situations, like heights or spiders.
It’s important to note that no single cause can explain anxiety for everyone—it’s often a mix of different factors. Understanding what triggers our anxiety can help us take proactive steps to manage it and reduce its impact on our lives.
How to Manage Anxiety
The great news is that anxiety is manageable, and many people find relief through a combination of strategies. Here are a few to consider:
Therapy: Talking to a mental health professional can help us understand and manage our anxiety.
Medication: Sometimes, medication can help reduce anxiety symptoms.
Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help calm our minds and bodies.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce stress and improve our mood.
Healthy Lifestyle: Eating well, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol can make a big difference.
Anxiety is a common experience that affects many people, but understanding what it is and how it works can help us take steps toward managing it.
Remember, anxiety is a natural stress response. With the right tools and support, we can find ways to reduce its impact on our lives.
You're not alone, and many resources are available to support you on your journey to healing. If anxiety is interfering with your daily activities, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for help.
Here at 2BE Well Therapy, we offer individual and group sessions to those seeking anxiety management.
We will provide a professional hand to help you overcome your mental health struggles.
Are you interested in working through your thoughts with a professional? Book a consultation with me here.