Anxiety affects more than 40 million people in the U.S. alone. With roughly over 18% of the population in the U.S. afflicted with this disorder, both the medical profession and alternative therapy professionals are actively seeking the means to better identify and treat this disorder.
Anxiety can rob a person of their confidence, happiness, and freedom. A person can feel trapped in an unending cycle of self-loathing and fear when dealing with an anxiety disorder. It is a personal and social disease that can only be cured with support and understanding.
When looking at the nature of anxiety, careful consideration must be paid toward the symptoms being presented. Unlike the diagnosing of other disorders, the widespread variations of anxiety depend heavily on the individual to become aware of their specific symptoms.
Knowing the specific behaviors and triggers can aid a person in making an accurate self-diagnosis. Treatment should not end with self-diagnosis and should not replace medical intervention.
Seeking medical attention can be especially challenging for those suffering from anxiety as they may believe that it is “all in their head” or that they will “get over it.” This can be a risky attitude to have and can be dangerous if the anxiety is left untreated.
Reluctant attitudes can develop if an individual does not have a support system willing to understand the complexity and seriousness of anxiety. Fortunately there are local and regional support groups that help those who do not have the personal means to cope with this disorder.
The ambiguous nature of anxiety can make the location of specific behavior patterns a necessity. Keeping track of when and how symptoms appear will aid an individual in defining their specific disorder.
Many are ashamed of their afflictions and will try to hide them to avoid social embarrassment. It is this fear of “being found out” that can cause many people to become anti-social and closed off. Without proper treatment anxiety can grow to overwhelm an individual until they are unable to cope with life.
Communicating fears and problems associated with anxiety will give a sense of reassurance that can boost confidence in seeking help. Breaking down self-imposed barriers can be difficult to do on one’s own and it is strongly advised that a support system be set in place before treatment can begin.
Anxiety disorders may come bundled together as two or more disorders. If left to their own devices an individual may develop other disorders over time. Finding help quickly is essential in successful treatment.
The information contained at this site is not to be substituted for medical advice. It is designed to help individuals identify anxiety disorders and seek treatment options.
