In a world of 24/7 connectivity, perceived anxiety is on the rise. Below are 8 facts to help you understand and better navigate anxiety’s symptoms and effects.
1. Tends to run in families but may be “in the closet” and not talked about. Reviewing your family health history is important!
2. Is often associated with “accumulating” stressful events, either negative or positive such as over-excitement.
3. May become worse with use of caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol.
4. Can occur when tensions and fears are automatically stuffed, build up, and have insufficient outlets.
5. May result in discrete panic attacks which reoccur and seem to strike “out of the blue.” Fear of the next panic attack may create anticipatory anxiety as fear of fear increases.
6. Is capable of producing palpitations, physical weakness, sweats, shakes, and other bodily symptoms.
7. Needs to be diagnosed by an M.D. to rule out any other underlying medical problems such as thyroid issues.
8. Leads to Avoidant Behaviors
The dangers of anxiety extend beyond internal suffering and health effects. They include restrictions that anxiety ultimately places on your lifestyle and behavior(s).
BOTTOM LINE: Chronic anxiety has bad effects on family life, work habits, social activities, and friendships. Exercise or leisure pursuits may be limited or avoided and sex is often not desired. Untreated anxiety may result in escalating depression.