Anxiety
It is estimated that 19% of adults in the US experience anxiety in the last year.
There are a number of different types of anxiety disorders, including;
Generalised anxiety disorder - persistent excessive but non-specific unrealistic worry that can be chronic with flareups
Panic disorder - frequent and unexpected, often disabling, panic attacks characterised by a wave of fear. Lasting up to a couple of minutes and including heart palpitations, shaking and shortness of breath, panic attacks typically involve a fear of losing control
Social anxiety - intense anxiety about social interactions or performing in front of others resulting in fear, self-consciousness and embarrassment
Phobias - persistent and excessive fear about a particular object or situation
Separation anxiety - excessive anxiety about distress being away from an individual and is the most common anxiety condition in children
Selective mutism - the inability to speak in certain social situations
Obsessive-compulsive disorder - unwanted and intrusive obsessions and compulsions including repetitive behaviours or mental actions
Post-traumatic stress disorder - failure to recover after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event characterised by intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their experience that last long after the traumatic event has ended
Anxiety disorders usually require a medical diagnosis. Psychotherapy and/or medication may be required to manage symptoms. Speak to your doctor about the best options for your particular symptoms.
In addition to medical support, there are a number of things you can do to ease anxiety including:
Prioritise sleep with solid sleep hygiene (going to bed and waking at the same time every day) and a good sleep routine (warm shower/bath, reading, meditation) will set you up well
A weighted blanket may be soothing
Daily movement; preferably outdoors. Exercising outside provides the added benefit of fresh air and, if during the day, both vitamin D plus melatonin (which helps initiate sleep). Some people find yoga particularly effective as it can be a meditative movement
Breathwork, meditation, mindfulness and journaling can be very grounding, as can drawing or colouring in
Talking with a friend or trusted advisor
Eating loads of fresh fruit and vegetables and drinking plenty of water
Minimise access to news and social media if they are triggering
