Anxiety is normal. It’s the brain’s way of reacting to stressful, scary, and unfamiliar situations. But when it becomes extreme and gets in the way of your day-to-day activities like school, work, or social functions, it can be serious and could be considered an anxiety disorder. There are different types of anxiety disorders, including social phobia, selective mutism, separation anxiety disorder, substance-induced anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. The symptoms and signs of anxiety disorders also vary, but the most common are the following:
- Trembling
- Sweating
- Uncontrolled worrying
- Restlessness or lack of sleep
- Tiredness and weakness
- Hyperventilation
- Sense of panic or danger
- Nervousness
Your doctor can diagnose if you have an anxiety disorder. First, he will perform physical and psychological tests to understand your history and determine underlying problems that may cause anxiety. After assessing your data, he will give you the diagnosis and work on the best course of treatment for you.
There are various causes of anxiety disorders, and some of them are:
- Genes. If there is a history of anxiety or depression in your family, there is a chance that you can inherit that.
- Substance use. Excessive users of various substances like alcohol and drugs may experience anxiety when withdrawal kicks in.
- Medications. Some medications like illegal drugs, could also have the same effect.
- Health problems. Some health issues, including lung and heart problems, may cause this disorder or worsen anxiety symptoms.
- Personality. There are people whose brains are wired like that. Specific personality types may also experience this, like those who are perfectionists.
- Stressful occasions. Painful, sad, or other stressful events like violence, neglect, or death of family or friends could also cause anxiety disorder.
How to treat anxiety disorder
- Medication. Your doctor will prescribe medications to treat your anxiety disorder. Some of these medications are antidepressants, beta-blockers, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants. Follow your doctor’s instructions in taking your medications and ensure that you get them on time and at the correct dosage.
- Lifestyle changes. Changes in your lifestyle can also help better manage anxiety and its symptoms. For instance, exercising can help release stress. Eating nutritious foods will also make you feel better. Plus, certain foods are believed to relieve anxiety, like eggs, nuts, and fatty fish. You may also consider using organic products like CBD oil and golden milk with turmeric latte that you can find at https://onefarm.com/product/turmeric-latte/. CBD oil can potentially help relieve stress, make you feel calm, and improve sleep cycles. Turmeric milk is also rumoured to help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.
- Psychotherapy. A mental health service provider will help manage your anxiety disorder through counselling. You will have sessions where the specialist will talk to you about how you feel, give recommendations on how to control them, and track your progress.
Anxiety disorders are problems that can be treated with proper diagnosis and help from your doctor. If you experience any signs or symptoms of this disorder, consult your doctor right away for an appropriate diagnosis and guide on its treatment. You don’t have to be ashamed of it because it can be treated like any other disease, especially if it’s in the early stage.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health and well-being.
