By Foteini Lioliou,
Anxiety is a feeling everyone has felt at one point in life. For instance, being stressed about your academic success is really common. However, there are cases in which people not only deal with anxiety, but also let that feeling consume them for a long period of time. In that case, people are no longer facing fear, but a chronic and disastrous disorder.
First and foremost, it is imperative to mention that a great number of people struggle with stress on a daily basis. For example, many people are feeling nervous about getting to work, performing well in the working environment, and creating a balance between their job and their personal life. In general, they become nervous about having to complete all of the tasks within a time limit. This is the case of ordinary anxiety that frequently occurs but is easier to manage.
Nonetheless, there are numerous people on this planet who feel anxious for a long period of time (even for years) and seem to have no idea how to combat this fear. The diagnosis for this situation is unfortunately and undoubtedly: anxiety disorder. This situation is of course much more difficult to cope with and it needs a lot of time and effort to face it.
Now, let me list some of the most common reasons why someone feels stressed:
- Academic success
- Work
- Financial difficulties
- Unhealthy lifestyle (drinking and smoking)
- Trauma
- Peer pressure
- Loneliness
- Insecurities
- The uncertainty the future holds
- Raising a family
- Social anxiety (being surrounded by unfamiliar people and having a hard time communicating with them)
- Bullying.
Whatever the reason, people who are struggling with stress are becoming more and more worried, depressed, and afraid. Not to mention that their inner pain is growing day by day. There are often people who deal with panic attacks on a daily basis that result from the enormous amount of pain and stress. They constantly battle their phobias and, most importantly, with themselves. Not knowing what to do and feeling helpless, they are succumbing to this pain and fear and they let their hearts consume it all. This feeling is dreadful, insufferable, and sometimes deadly.
Many mentally exhausted people have lost their lives in the pursuit of being relieved and saved from this monstrous burden. Anxiety has a significant cost, but let that not be death.
This article will not only talk about anxiety but will also offer ways to alleviate it. Here are some tips:
- Start therapy sessions. Honestly, there is nothing wrong with visiting a professional who can assist you (even medical).
- It may sound silly or disappointing but if you actually work out, things will work out.
- Praying/meditation. Take some time to relax, pray and say some positive affirmations about yourself and your life. If you actually believe in what you say, then you will be more confident and more inspired to face your fears.
- Stop drinking and smoking. If you reduce some of your bad habits, it is possible to reduce some of your worries, too.
- Go out with people you love. Sometimes, the best medicine is a coffee break with your friends with whom you can forget all of your problems.
- Follow a healthy eating plan. Studies have shown that eating healthy food boosts your mood and of course helps you keep fit.
Overall, anxiety is a really sensitive subject and those who suffer from it must be treated with excellent care. Always remember that it is okay not to be okay but do not let that sink in. Use all of your powers to combat this disorder. Take all the time you need and start with baby steps. Also, do not forget to ask for help when you need it. It is totally your choice to walk in this difficult direction and encounter your biggest fears in order to be healed.
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