Learning How to Cope with Anxiety 

Anxiety is normal. Anxiety affects how our bodies feel, how we think and how we behavior. Everyone experiences anxiety at times. For example, it is normal to feel anxious when on a roller coaster, or before a job interview. 

Anxiety is a system in our body that helps us to deal with real danger (for example, anxiety allows us to jump out of the way of a speeding car) or to perform at our best (for example, it motivates us to prepare for a big presentation). When you experience anxiety, your body’s “fight-flight-freeze” response (also called the “adrenaline response”) is triggered. This response prepares your body to defend itself. 

We experience anxiety when we perceive that we are in danger. This response is great when there is an actual danger (such as encountering a bear), but becomes a problem when the “perceived danger” is not actually dangerous (giving a speech). 

When that anxiety becomes excessive, persistent and to severe to handle the individual may have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern in the United States. Anxiety disorders are a group of related conditions, each having unique symptoms. However, all anxiety disorders have one thing in common: persistent, excessive fear or worry in situations that are not threatening. Some of the most common Anxiety disorders are: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Phobias.