None of us live a worry-free life. The best most of us can do is put effort into coping with the worries we have and reducing the burden of those worries where and when possible.
But there are an increasing number of people who are being overcome by persistent and excessive worry, tormented by disturbing thoughts. Statistics indicate something like 14% of adult Australians are affected by an anxiety disorder. Anecdotal evidence would suggest that figure is far higher.
Sufferers spend a lot of time feeling distressed. More often than not they are unable to identify the source or trigger of that distress – it’s just there and it won’t go away. Anxiety robs people of their ability to enjoy their life.
A range of commonplace symptoms includes things like a pounding heart, muscle tension, stomach upsets, headaches or feeling dizzy. Symptoms can combine and manifest themselves in full-blown panic attacks or an identifiable disorder. But whether anxiety has a minimal impact on an individual’s daily life or becomes exaggerated to the point where it disrupts their ability to function in society, encouragement should be drawn from the fact that treatments are available.
Anxiety can spiral into obsessive behaviours or depression. It can destroy stability. But while worry is both inevitable and unavoidable it’s also manageable. The earlier it’s recognised for what it is and counter-active strategies put in place, the better the chance of reducing its impact.
Those strategies can be something as simple as a breathing exercise; a re-focus on the here and now. Small and practised actions can stave off an anxiety attack.
The first step is recognising that there is a problem. The second step is seeking help to tackle that problem. Where worry and anxiety are concerned deliberate ignorance is a long way removed from bliss. Help is at hand.
Gary Bentley Counselling 