For many people anxiety can be a tremendous burden to carry. Their hearts and minds are imprisoned by the darkness of endless problems that never seem to go away. At this point they are possibly suffering from anxiety disorder.
So what is anxiety?
What are the symptoms and how can the mind be relieved of the curse?
Description of Anxiety
Anxiety unsurprisingly is feeling anxious, worrying about how to deal with future events. Very often this accompanied by a feeling of helplessness. Anxiety, like any other emotion, is a signal from the mind telling us to take some form of action. If we feel anxious about a forthcoming presentation we are more likely to prepare for this event.
Some people will worry about the future and feel like their lives are spiralling out of control. They probably struggle to sleep at night wondering how they can regain that control.
Self Confidence
Anxiety can sometimes be associated with having no self confidence. Using a variety of techniques designed to build self confidence is a great way of taking action. Feeling anxious doesn't necessarily mean there is a problem; more to the point is that it is the way our minds perceive external influences.
Symptoms
Signs of anxiety are increased heart rate, muscle tension, no concentration, irritability, restlessness and sweating. Suffering anxiety doesn't mean we are weak of character; it is merely a process of the brain which is designed to help us. Anxiety can become a problem and turn into a disorder when it becomes a re-occurring emotion, even when there is no cause to feel anxious.
Examples of Anxiety Disorder
- Panic attacks. This is a feeling of strong anxiety courted by a fear of something particular.
- Agoraphobia. Despite the general conception, this is not a fear of public places, more a fear of suffering a panic attack in public places. This leads to an avoidance of said places.
- Social Phobia. Sufferers feel like they are being watched or they fear being the subject of attention.
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder. An ongoing anxiety, tension or excessive worry about the future.
Effects on Breathing
Whilst suffering from anxiety our breathing can be affected. This in turn increase anxiety and becomes a vicious circle. By learning to relax and control our breathing we are again taking action to overcome the problem.
Positive and Negative Thinking
Negative thinking is a classic trigger for bringing on anxiety. Fearing the re-action of the boss can well make us feel anxious. Using techniques to visualise positive outcomes and create heightened self confidence is another great action that can be taken.
How fantastic is that?
Terry Norrington
www.whatisthemeaningoffaith.com
