Unveiling the True Face of Anxiety

In today’s society, the word anxiety is often used to describe a variety of emotions linked to stress, fear, and worry. Whether it’s sharing pre-date jitters with a friend, worrying about a job interview, or sitting through hours of traffic, people frequently say they have anxiety. It’s used in both casual and formal conversations to express how someone feels in a certain situation.

However, it’s important to recognize that everyone responds to stress differently, and anxiety manifests in various ways. It’s equally crucial to understand that everyday stress responses do not always equate to having a diagnosable anxiety disorder. Learning to distinguish between typical reactions to uncomfortable situations and anxiety disorders can help people better understand their emotions and those of others.

If we want to help someone struggling with anxiety—whether that’s ourselves or a loved one—we need to first clarify what anxiety is and what it’s not. By doing so, we can work toward unveiling the true face of anxiety and addressing the misconceptions that contribute to the stigma and misunderstanding.

Understanding Anxiety

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), “Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness, and involve excessive fear or anxiety” (APA, 2021). While many people may feel temporary discomfort in a given situation, someone with a diagnosable anxiety disorder will often avoid the person, place, or thing that could trigger or worsen their symptoms.

To diagnose an anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist evaluates whether the fear or anxiety is disproportionate to the situation and whether it impacts daily functioning.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) recognizes several types of anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias, Agoraphobia, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Separation Anxiety Disorder (NIMH, 2018).

Identifying Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders encompass a wide range of symptoms, both emotional and physical. Symptoms can vary from person to person, depending on the type of disorder. However, a common factor is that anxiety frequently disrupts day-to-day functioning.

Here are some symptoms that may indicate an anxiety disorder:

• Restlessness and irritability
• Excessive worry or feelings of impending doom
• Difficulty concentrating
• Trembling or shaking
• Sensations of shortness of breath
• Pounding or racing heart
• Physical complaints such as upset stomach, headaches, fatigue, or insomnia

How to Help Someone with Anxiety

Supporting someone with anxiety means being emotionally present and providing a safe, non-judgmental space. Here are a few ways you can offer meaningful support:

1. Validate Their Experience: Acknowledge their feelings and understand that their experience is unique. Sharing personal struggles can make someone feel vulnerable, so it’s important to validate their emotions without judgment.
2. Express Genuine Concern: If you notice changes in someone’s emotional or behavioral patterns, reach out and offer support. Whether or not they choose to share at that moment is up to them—avoid being confrontational or forceful.
3. Show Love and Compassion: Anxiety can diminish self-worth and confidence. Offering love and compassion reminds someone that they are not alone and that their strength hasn’t gone unnoticed.
4. Change the Scenery: A simple change of environment can help. Whether it’s suggesting a walk, trying a new recipe, or moving to a quieter spot, a shift in surroundings can help ease anxiety and promote calming connections.
5. Ask to Help: Often, individuals with anxiety know what helps them feel better. Offering a simple “What can I do to help?” or “Want to tackle a task together?” can be incredibly supportive. A small favor, like picking up groceries, might be more helpful than you realize.

Helping someone with anxiety can be as simple as being there during both the tough and smooth days. While it’s natural to want to solve all of your loved one’s problems, sometimes the best way to help is to show compassion, listen without judgment, and offer a helping hand.

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References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2021, June). What are Anxiety Disorders? Link.

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018, July). Anxiety disorders. National Institute of Mental Health. Link.

• Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Anxiety Disorders: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Link.

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