Are you experiencing worry or fear that is so strong, it is interfering with your daily life? You may be suffering from anxiety, the most common mental health condition, affecting almost 30 percent of adults at some point in their lives. In addition to an overwhelming sense of worry or fear, more severe cases of anxiety can create feelings of helplessness, a sense of impending panic, danger or doom, increased heart rate, nervousness, hyperventilation and sweating.
Fortunately, anxiety is treatable in a number of different ways, including counseling, medications and lifestyle changes. If your anxiety is affecting your life and relationships, please talk to your primary care provider. Your health provider can help eliminate any underlying physical causes before referring you to a mental health professional.
Triggers for Anxiety
- Health Issues: For example, a recent medical diagnosis of cancer or a chronic illness.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: These can include medications for weight loss and cough/congestion.
- Caffeine: Drinking five cups of coffee can increase your level of anxiety. Energy drinks also contain a high amount of caffeine.
- Financial Concerns: Unexpected bills or being in debt can trigger anxiety.
- Social Events: With social anxiety disorder, meeting a room full of strangers can be an anxious moment.
- Ongoing Conflict: Arguments and disagreements, whether at work or in a personal relationship, can be overwhelming and trigger anxiety.
- Public Performance: Public speaking is the #1 fear for the average person, affecting 75 percent of the population.
- Personal Triggers: Being suddenly reminded of a traumatic event in your life, such as abuse, abandonment or physical injury.
Remember: If you’re experiencing anxiety, you’re not alone. Millions of people have experienced the same feelings, have gotten professional help, and are now free from anxiety.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, webMD