The Upsetting Reality for Those Who Suffer from Anxiety, and Methods to Cope with This Disorder Written by: Bethany Spencer
Introduction: One of the most disappointing realities of today’s world is the depressing fact that anxiety, stress, depression, and suicide levels in Canada are rapidly inclining. Around one in five Canadians now suffer from a mental health issue, (Vuchnich, Chai) which consequently affects all other aspects of those people’s lives. With nearly twenty two percent (Vuchnich, Chai) of people in Canada suffering through these seemingly incurable illnesses, there should be the question raised as to what exactly is the main source of all of these issues. As someone who has struggled with stress and anxiety for several years, it comes as no surprise to myself that these numbers are steadily increasing, as today’s world is undoubtedly fast paced and filled with pressure for teenagers and adults alike. All of the daily demands now incorporated into human’s lives are slowly taking over healthy states of minding the society, and for some this aspect of live has become too unbearable to continue withstanding. If these alarming rates do not start slowing down, our future generations will continue on with these unfortunate personal struggles, as eventually everyone will have some form of mental illness.
Symptoms: Anxiety disorders are certainly not uncommon these days, and they are certainly nothing to make fun of or brush off. Anxiety is a common disorder that can be found in homes, schools, communities and for some people, right inside of their head. There are an overwhelming amount of symptoms for anxiety disorders; over a hundred! Some of these symptoms may apply for all forms of anxiety, and others are specific to only one or two types.
Some of the most common symptoms for anxiety disorders are:
concentration difficulties
dizziness
general muscle pain
headaches
nausea
chills
shortness of breath
sleeping issues.
(“All Possible Symptoms of Anxiety”) Although someone with anxiety may not suffer from all or most of these symptoms, any select few of these symptoms could certainly drain your body of its energy and limit your ability to participate in activities happening all around you.
General Anxiety Disorder is the most common diagnoses for people dealing with a mental illness relating to anxiety. The most prominent side effects of General Anxiety Disorder are:
muscle tension
being easily fatigued
(“Anxiety Disorders”)
irritability
feeling restless or on edge
difficulty concentrating/mind going blank
(“Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms”)
Rapid heart beat
cold and clammy hands
jumpiness
feelings of fear or dread
(Cole)
Overcoming severe symptoms related to anxiety can be extremely difficult, especially when you have been exposed to the symptoms for an extended period of time. Sometimes it feels as though there isn't an effective method to repair these broken links inside your head, and sometimes you have been living with the symptoms for so long that you do not notice them anymore as being an issue. Either way, you are setting up personal roadblocks to disallow the improvement of your condition. Although changing your daily routine or admitting you have an issue that requires attention is frightening, forcing yourself to continue tolerating this emotional turmoil is significantly more damaging and painful for your mental health. From personal experience, my anxiety became considerably easier to manage as soon as I admitted that I had a problem, and needed help from others to aid my situation. No matter what your current situation is, make sure to take grand strides towards improving your mental health, no matter how embarrassed or vulnerable you may feel.
Coping Methods: There are many simple and natural ways to reduce/cope with your anxiety. The most effective and favourable methods include:
Intaking a larger amount of water
Getting at least eight hours of sleep
Using positive self-talk methods
Participating in at least thirty minutes of meditation, yoga, or exercise
Deep breathing sessions
Taking a break to listen to music
Writing down your thoughts in a journal
Distracting your thoughts by reading
Going outside to explore or go for a walk
(“Tips to Manage Anxiety and Stress”)
You do not need to struggle alone. Use those who surround you as supports; do not be ashamed to show them how your life is truthfully unraveling and the difficulties you are currently facing. If admitting your weaknesses to others seems like an unachievable and daunting task, at least start the process by using one of the dozens of coping methods found on the internet. Most of the methods for reducing anxiety located on the web are activities that the person experiencing the anxiety can go through by themselves. By making the slightest effort towards improving your own mental health, it is probable that you will end up with many unexpected benefits that will guide you towards reaching out to others for aid, and towards your desired future. Do not sell yourself short. Invest your time into making yourself the best person you can be. It’s not selfish, it will benefit your quality of life for as long as you live.