Medical provider: Understanding anxiety key to overcoming it

Anxiety is a pervasive mental-health condition affecting millions of people worldwide.

Feeling anxious in certain situations is normal, but when anxiety persists and impairs daily function, it becomes a concern. Anxiety can manifest as a general sense of unease, excessive worry, nervousness, or, more specifically, panic attacks, social anxiety or phobias.

Understanding the nature of anxiety, its causes, treatments and effective coping strategies is crucial in overcoming this common struggle and leading a more balanced, stress-free life.

At its core, anxiety is a natural response to stress. It has evolutionary origins in the human “fight or flight” mechanism, which helped our ancestors survive imminent threats. However, in the modern world, this response can be triggered by an array of everyday stressors, from work pressure to interpersonal conflicts. If left untreated, it can result in chronic anxiety, which has the potential to significantly impact an individual’s mental health and overall well-being.

There are several considerations when determining the causes of anxiety. One of the primary factors contributing to anxiety is the uncertainty that pervades various aspects of our lives. We may worry about our financial stability, job security or personal relationships, and this uncertainty can fuel anxious thoughts. Genetics, childhood experiences, and underlying mental health conditions can all contribute to the development and persistence of anxiety disorders. However, in some, there may be no known direct cause. Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options for anxiety.

One common form of treatment is psychotherapy, which involves talking with a trained therapist to identify and address the underlying causes of anxiety. Several approaches to psychotherapy exist, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, which focuses on challenging and changing negative thought patterns, and exposure therapy, which involves gradually facing fears or anxieties in a controlled environment.

In addition, psychotherapy assists individuals in developing healthy coping mechanisms. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, promote self-awareness and allow individuals to become more attuned to their emotional states, helping them better manage their anxiety.

It is also crucial to practice self-care. Regular exercise can help release endorphins, the body’s natural stress-relief hormone. A healthy diet that includes complex carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds, chia seeds and magnesium-rich foods, such as nuts, seeds and leafy greens, are beneficial for mood and anxiety while limiting caffeine and high-sugar snacks which may exacerbate it.

While psychotherapy and healthy coping mechanisms are effective first-line treatments, they may not be enough. Some may require support through medications, such as antidepressants or anxiolytics, in conjunction with therapy. These medications work by regulating brain chemistry to reduce anxiety symptoms.

Remember that overcoming anxiety is a gradual process, and you must be patient with yourself as you develop and implement coping strategies. While anxiety may be a common struggle, the right combination of support, self-awareness, and proactive management can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Lleva Groves, PMHNP-BC, is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with American Medical Associates in Maricopa.