Anxiety is a normal feeling that everyone can experience. You may feel anxious at any time, especially when making important decisions in life. Anxiety generally arises from excessive stress about an environment or a new situation. Anxiety can manifest as panic attacks, social anxiety disorders, or phobias—an excessive fear of something.
However, anxiety should not be left unchecked, especially when it reaches an acute and overwhelming level. When the anxiety you experience becomes excessive and persistent, it can lead to mental health issues. If left unaddressed, these issues can interfere with your daily activities, reducing your performance.
To manage anxiety, it’s best to first recognize the symptoms, as outlined below:
Symptoms and Factors Causing Excessive Anxiety
Some common symptoms that typically accompany anxiety disorders include:
- Irritability without reason
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Difficulty sleeping
- Tension in muscles
- Uncontrollable excessive anxiety
- Difficulty focusing and concentrating on one thing
Common signs of all types of anxiety disorders include:
- Heart palpitations that cannot be controlled
- Sudden feelings of fear or panic
- Cold, numb fingers or toes
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness and nausea
- Dry mouth
The exact causes of anxiety disorders are still under research.
However, psychologists have identified several factors that can trigger excessive anxiety:
- Traumatic events experienced in childhood
- Economic pressure
- An environment filled with stress
- Genetic factors
- Developmental history
When these factors are present in a person, they are more likely to experience excessive anxiety attacks.
Therapy Guide for Overcoming Excessive Anxiety
Anxiety is a disorder that affects a person’s psychological condition. Here are some psychological therapies commonly used to alleviate excessive anxiety:
Stress Management Therapy
Stress is a major cause of excessive anxiety. Therefore, stress management therapy is often recommended. This therapy can be done through relaxation techniques such as meditation. Stress management therapy should ideally be combined with other therapies for optimal results, with support from close family or friends helping the recovery process.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a therapy aimed at changing the thought patterns of individuals who experience excessive anxiety. During this therapy, the therapist will guide and encourage you to shift your perspective in order to reduce the anxiety you feel.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is typically the first step in identifying and addressing excessive anxiety. You will be asked to attend several counseling sessions with a specialist, where you will discuss your problems. These sessions help you open up, and throughout the process, you will receive advice on gradually reducing your anxiety. In addition to therapy, you may also be prescribed antidepressants if deemed necessary by your doctor.
Healthy Tips to Reduce Anxiety
There are several other things you can do to reduce anxiety, such as:
- Regular exercise
- Sufficient and regular sleep
- Reducing consumption of coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks
- Following a healthy diet
No Comments