What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress that helps us prepare for challenging situations. It manifests as worry, tension, or fear and can display itself physically, cognitively, and emotionally.

Some of the physical symptoms include:

- Sweating

- Palpitations,

- Shortness of breath

- Stomach pains

Cognitive symptoms may present as:

- Excessive worry

- Negative thoughts

- Difficulty concentrating

Some of the common emotional symptoms are:

- Sadness

- Irritability

- Fearfulness

How can anxiety affect a person's life?

Due to the symptoms of anxiety, the person may have inabilities to carry out everyday activities, decreasing their quality of life. The following are some of how anxiety can affect your life:

- Problems working or studying because anxiety hinders your performance.

- Difficulties in social relationships. Irritability, nervousness, and excessive worrying cause the person to be unable to establish or maintain relationships with others.

- Physical health problems. Anxiety generates symptoms such as headaches, stomach pains, and sweating. These symptoms can be so intense that the person needs to visit a doctor.

- Mental health problems. Anxiety can trigger the onset of other psychological illnesses, such as depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

- Difficulties in enjoying life. Traveling, going to the movies, or going out with friends can be difficult for people with anxiety.

How can you prevent and reduce anxiety?

1) Practice mindfulness and deep breathing exercises.

These exercises help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, rapid heart rate, and shortness of breath. In addition, they can help you promote a sense of calm and focus.

2) Exercise regularly. Regular exercise is an effective way to reduce anxiety symptoms. Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that help improve mood. It also helps reduce stress and improve overall physical health.

3) Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can worsen anxiety symptoms. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and ensuring you get enough restorative sleep is essential.

4) Eat a balanced diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help reduce anxiety symptoms. Studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids in fish and walnuts may help reduce anxiety.

5) Try naturopathy. A naturopathic doctor can recommend various therapies to help reduce anxiety. Some of these may include herbal supplements, acupuncture, and aromatherapy. Also, they can identify and treat underlying causes of anxiety, such as hormonal imbalances or physical health problems.

6) Limit caffeine and alcohol. These beverages affect the nervous system and cause increased palpitations, nervousness, and irritability. Consuming too much caffeine and alcohol can worsen anxiety symptoms. You need to be aware of the amount of caffeine and alcohol you drink and try to limit your intake.

7) Keep in touch with your loved ones. Social support is crucial to managing anxiety. Connect with friends and family and consider joining a support group. These groups can provide a safe space to talk about your experiences and learn from others who are going through similar difficulties.

8) Try therapy: Psychological therapy is one of the most effective ways to reduce and prevent anxiety symptoms. A therapist can help you understand your anxiety and teach you coping strategies to manage your symptoms.

Conclusion

Remember that reducing or eliminating anxiety may not be easy or quick. However, combining the above strategies and patience can improve anxiety over time. It is always helpful to consult a medical professional for a personalized treatment plan.