Anxiety

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is typically characterized by stress worry and fatigue, and is a normal part of life in a stressful situation such as public speaking or taking a test. However, someone with an anxiety disorder may experience intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common forms of mental illness, with 19% of the U.S. population diagnosed.

The most common anxiety disorder is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

GAD is most easily differentiated from typical anxiety if you experience the following:
There may be times when your worries don't completely consume you, but you still feel anxious even though there's no apparent reason.
For example, you may feel intense worry about your safety or the safety of your loved ones, or you may have a persistent general sense that something bad is about to happen.

Tips to cope with anxiety:

• Practice intentional focus on what you can control, and accepting what you cannot control.

• Create and maintain a routine; the simpler the better.

• Stay active and exercise; this can be as simple as going for a walk once a day or as structured as a regulated work-out routine.

  • Being active releases feel-good endorphins that enhance your sense of well-being, and can help take your mind off the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety. Ensure you set reasonable goals and view it as something positive instead of a "chore"

• Dedicate time to do things you enjoy.

• Find a support system; being open with people you trust can you receive support and help you stay calm when feeling overwhelmed.

• Reach out to a medical professional for treatment options.