Let's face it - there's a lot to be anxious about in today's society.
Between the rising cost of living, the decrease in employment
opportunities, and the many other life stressors we face, it's no wonder
there are so many individuals struggling with anxiety! According to
the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 40 MILLION
Americans over the age of 18 have been diagnosed with an anxiety
disorder.
So What Is An Anxiety Disorder?Anxiety
disorders include panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder,
post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and
phobias. Some people may struggle with an anxiety disorder and may not
even realize it. Symptoms can range anywhere from having chronic
feelings of dread, to avoidance of certain situations and/or things, to
full blown panic attacks. It is important that you or your loved ones
do not ignore these symptoms. If you do, you're only cheating yourself
out of a healthier, happier way of living.
The First StepI would suggest
going to your primary care doctor to discuss the symptoms you are
feeling. It is important to first rule out any underlying health
problems. Next, I would recommend seeing a counselor (CIT, PLPC, LPC).
Counselors can help you work through the anxiety you are experiencing,
and can offer practical techniques to reduce anxiety and stress.
Counseling Techniques for AnxietyThere are a variety of ways to deal with anxiety disorders. Some I have found to be helpful include:
(1) Journal - Document
the time, place, people, thoughts, and emotions that take place when
you get anxious. Are there any patterns? Any triggers?
(2) Deep Breathing -
Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Be sure to
breathe deeply from your diaphragm, expanding your stomach when you
breathe in.
(3) Exercise - This is a great stress reducer!
(4) Diet Check - Are you eating foods or drinking too much caffeine? Bad news - that may be increasing your anxiety.
(5) Physical Relaxation -
Try tensing your muscles, then relaxing them. Note the contrast
between how you feel when you are tense, and how you feel when you are
relaxed. Go to a quiet place where you can focus on relaxing your
muscle groups one by one.
(6) Prayer -
Take some time to focus on what's really important in life - God. He
is here for you, cares for you, and loves you deeply. Pray about the
things in your life that are causing you to worry. My seminary
professor, Dr. Richard Winter, once said, "Anxiety exposes idols."
Perhaps this is God's way of leading you into a deeper awareness and
closeness to Him.
Whatever your struggle may be, it is my hope
that God will teach you and bless you through this experience. Many
people find mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual healing through
the aforementioned steps. Dealing with the issues you are facing may be
a short process or a long one...either way, it is a GOOD one!