The sad reality is that many more students in college struggle with anxiety. Unfortunately having anxiety doesn't mean that a person just gets an anxiety attack, it's much more than that. Anxiety comes with a whole host of symptoms ranging from physical such as extreme fatigue in the whole body to mental symptoms like inability to sleep or having trouble concentrating.
Having been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder early in my freshman year, I've learned a lot since then. Most importantly I've learned that I'm not alone. The percentage of college students with anxiety is rising each year. In 2013, the American Psychological Association came out with a study that said 43% of college students struggle with anxiety. That number is shocking, and unfortunately, the numbers are not going down.
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Someone once said to me that anxiety is just an excuse for people who are lazy or scared. Well, I'm truly sorry that you think that. Anxiety is so much more, it's a deeply rooted struggle that many of us face. People with anxiety can face anxiety attacks, shaking, migraines, excessive worrying, stomach problems, and so many more issues. Personally, I struggle with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and I tend to worry about everything, even if it's something that isn't worrying or a big deal. It's an everyday struggle.
Being in college with anxiety is a hard experience. Struggling with anxiety and managing to keep up with school work, being involved in clubs, internships, and countless other things is a perfect storm for those coping with anxiety. There have been so many ups and downs. One day we might feel happy and positive and the next day we might be distraught and nervous about anything that's going on.
The most important knowledge that I've gained through my experiences is that I'm not alone and that it's not shameful to get help. In seeing a psychologist, I've learned that it's normal to feel this way. I've found support and love from friends and family members. Going through this struggle is hard, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I hope that if you're experiencing this, that you know that people care about you and love you. Getting help is not shameful, take care of yourself!
