Founder & CEO Michele Fried discusses the definition, causes, and treatment of anxiety.
Recently we wrote about stress and offered ways to deal with stress. We acknowledged that stress in not necessarily unhealthy in fact.
When considering stress, when do we pass into something known as anxiety? What is anxiety and when does it become a diagnosis?
Saying we feel anxious or stressed does not mean we have anxiety or an anxiety disorder. Unless you have an underlying diagnosis you will be encouraged to reduce your stress and learn healthy ways to deal with anxiety driven behaviors and symptoms. Remember that medication often reduces anxiety but does not teach you have to cope with it.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is an overused term for several issues that can cause nervousness, fear, apprehension, and excessive worry. Anxiety can manifest into physical symptoms. The link here provides a description of anxiety disorders.
It is important to realize that everyone experiences anxiety. Whether it be dealing with an exam, an interview, the adoption process ~ these feelings are typical and justified. However if the symptoms of anxiety begin to consistently affect one’s sleep or daily functioning, then the level of anxiety might need to be examined and a plan of action put into place.
What Causes Anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are caused by any number of issues or a combination of issues from environment, to medical to genetics.
What is the Treatment for Anxiety?
Anxiety can be treated via counseling, with or without the use of anti-anxiety/anti-depressant medication as well as via self-treating methods.
How Can Anxiety Be Prevented?
Honestly, we don’t believe you can prevent anxiety but you can certainly work toward lessening the symptoms. Here are some tips:
- Develop a healthy sleep routine
- Exercise regularly
- Eat healthy
- Reduce or eliminate drinks and food with caffeine
- Eliminate alcohol and marijuana
- Identify a counselor
- Seek support through support groups