The Problems that Plague Us: Anxiety and Stress

By Trevor Mosley

Anxiety and stress have become part of the parcel of our everyday lives. Anxiety is an emotional response that every individual feels and it has a very meaningful purpose. However, when these emotions become uncontrollable, they can have adverse effects that impede our daily routines.

The theory that stress is the contributing cause of anxiety is widely known. Thus, in order to effectively overcome anxiety, stamping out the root of the problem is advised. Knowing what causes you the undue amount of stress is often the optimum diagnosis. The problem is that stress is a subjective disorder and hundreds of factors can lead to the culmination of stress.

Endorphins are the body's natural pain reliever and mood enhancer. But in some, when anxiety and stress give way to panic and terror the release of this neurotransmitter into the brain is inhibited and it's effects go unrealized throughout the body causing an exaggerated sense of dread.

This heightened mental state can cause one to panic and behave irrationally. The fear is so crippling that one is rendered dysfunctional and hysterical. Panic attacks alone are not harmful to the physical body but repeated episodes can have destructive side effects on the individual.

The Start Of The Cycle

The onset of a full blown panic attack brought on by excessive worry is swift and comes without warning. Restlessness becomes prominent and the hands become moist with sweat while their complexion is either pale or flushed but always clammy. They perceive an unrealistic view of the current situation and things quickly deteriorate into a terror that is so crippling that many of the stricken feel as they will die right then and there, the situation is so dire that they will not survive. The attacks can last from minutes to hours but average about 30-45 minutes in length. The experience leaves them physically exhausted and mentally drained.

Anxiety and stress can also cause long term effects that are destructive in nature. The victim is often lethargic as he is unable to fall asleep due to constant worrying. Sleep deprivation can cause physical conditions such as migraines and irritability and clenched jaws and grinding teeth. The victim now also lacks the ability to concentrate as he is easily irritable. In worst case scenarios, he develops an explosive behaviour.

If treatment is not immediately sought, the victim can develop agoraphobia, which is a fear of the outdoors. He will refuse to leave the safety of his house. This only aggravates matters because now he has another problem on his hands, and he will to worry about his anxiety attacks.

Treatment And Recovery

Anxiety and stress can also bring about physiological problems such as hypoglycemia,thyroid disorders and many other myocardial conditions. These conditions can be treated, although the sufferer must tackle them at the root of the problem. People who live with mood disorders usually respond well to treatments such as medications, behaviour modification and psychotherapy. Generally, a combination of these three forms of treatment is advised for a holistic solution.

A lifestyle revamp is also important if one is to cure himself of panic attacks. Adopting a healthier lifestyle and exercising regularly not only have physical benefits but it also eliminates stress and clears one's mind. One's dietary habits should also change, and the consumption of health supplements and healthy food will contribute to mental wellness. Hypnotherapy can also help one to overcome some phobias and it is fast becoming a popular choice of treatment. The key to keeping future episodes in check is to detect the problem early and seek treatment immediately. - 30450

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Coping With Panic Attacks: What You Need to Know

By Trevor Mosley

Coping with panic attacks is a process that does not happen overnight. It requires the victim to devise a treatment plan that comprises of behaviour modification, relaxation techniques, medications as well as psychotherapies. When the treatments are combined, the victim can then manage his stress well. There are factors that cause stress levels to fluctuate: work commitments, family responsibilities etc. With ever mounting pressure, one becomes prone to panic attacks. Here are a few tips you can heed when coping with panic attacks.

Medications

Benzodiazepines type medicine such as Valium, Xanax and Ativan are prescription drugs meant to help a patient deal with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). They are used as a mean to provide short term relief.

For long term treatment, the patient may be given Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) such as Prozac, Paxil or Zoloft. In severe cases, patients may be prescribed anti-seizure drugs. It is important that the patient use these forms of drugs occasionally and only when needed because they can impede the body's natural system of coping with panic attacks.

Therapy and Counselling

During therapy sessions, the patient is taught several techniques that will help him to relax. He is also encouraged to make some positive changes in the way he thinks and in his lifestyle. He also learns how to divert these thoughts so that they become positive and rationalised, allowing him to overcome his fears head on.

The patient is also urged to learn more and understand the causes and symptoms of panic attacks. The knowledge that he acquires will prepare him should a panic attack act up again. Yoga and meditation sessions are effective in soothing one's mind as well and are therapeutic sessions where the patient is freed of stress. He can seek solace in support groups where he will find fellow victims.

Natural Remedies

Eons ago, our ancestors have discovered many medicinal herbs that assist one in coping with anxiety. These herbal remedies are available in the form of warm tea or tincture. They can help one sleep better as well as relax his mood.

* St. John's Wort

* Passionflower

* Catnip tea

* Skullcap

* Passionflower

* Skullcap

* Kava

Health supplements and vitamins can be taken if one is determined to attain mental wellness. Popping Bacopin can help to bring down one's anxiety level. Vitamin B-12 helps with the release of essential neurotransmitters into the brain too. Chamomile is also unmatched when it comes to its effects to relieving stress. It is known to have a tranquilizing effect and it inhibits the release of stress causing chemicals.

Best of the Rest

There are several methods that have risen in eminence in recent years. These holistic methods help to improve overall health, which is more effective than isolating and treating a symptom at a time. A person under hypnosis is able to shift his attention away from his fears and onto positive and rational thoughts. Exercising helps to enhance one's mood. A person who exercises regularly is also able to sleep better. Exercising also allows one to let out all his pent up emotions.

Another technique that is fast becoming popular is the stimulation of one's brain to trigger endorphins. They are natural mood enhancers that are produced when one is exercising or having an intense work out. Endorphins are also released after sex. Acupuncture sessions restore one's calmness through the stimulation of endorphins. - 30450

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Overcoming A Fear Of Snakes

By Trevor Johnson

Probably more people than not are afraid of snakes. For the most part, fear of snakes is totally irrational and comes from a lack of true information about snakes. A bad experience with a snake or a fear learned from a parent who was scared of snakes can make you believe that all snakes are to be feared when in fact that is not true at all.

The best way to calm your fear of snakes is to educate yourself about them. While there are some venomous snakes, most are not harmful and they are very useful. Snakes help keep the population of rats, mice and vermin down.

Most snakes are not aggressive towards people and they would rather run and hide from you and they will do so if you give them the chance. Some snakes are territorial towards their home, but they still don't want anything to do with you and will avoid you if at all possible.

A snake will strike if it thinks it's life is in jeopardy. A snake that feels it is in danger of being stepped on or picked up will likely strike. If you are walking outside where there could be a snake, just pay attention to where you step. Snakes like to lay under rocks or logs so take care if you move one. Despite tales you may have been told, a snake will not usually chase a person.

On the off chance that you do suffer a snake bite, seek medical attention, but stay calm. Most snake bites are not harmful and if you keep the bite clean and don't let it get infected, it shouldn't cause you any problems. Even a bite from a poisonous snake is not usually fatal if you get medical attention immediately.

The best thing you can do to help you overcome your fear of snakes is to educate yourself. Snakes might make you a little uncomfortable, but in most cases they aren't a danger to you and we really do need them. - 30450

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The Finer Points Of Emetophobia (the Fear Of Becoming Ill)

By Trevor Johnson

Should you ever come across a comprehensive listing of all of our various human phobias and fears, you might likely come across emetophobia. This is better known to most as a fear of becoming ill. While this might describe all of us in part, since no one wants to become sick. However, for those who have this phobia, it might be very difficult to function normally.

Having this phobia alone causes the sufferer to spend much of their time anxious and tense, which can in many cases cause them to feel ill. This only serves to make matters worse. Truth be told, this goes much farther than just not wanting to get sick. It really stems into how the sufferer feels when he/she is sick.

There is likely nothing worse to the sufferer of a condition such as this than vomiting. The anxiety is really allowed to thrive based on the fear of the act of vomiting. This idea keeps them from functioning normally if they believe they will get sick or are sick. Even to the point of being in a vehicle, because their act of vomiting could distract the driver and cause and accident.

Most often this fear is generated from a very traumatic event in someone's life that focused on them being sick. An origin could even be someone else having been sick that the sufferer remembers as a terrifying experience.

You will likely need to see a psychiatrist if you were trying to overcome the phobia. The most common method of treatment results in the sufferer confronting their fears directly. This will work for many who deal with the condition, while others might have further complications fueling their condition.

I hope that you were able to learn a little more about emetophobia through this article. A fear of becoming ill is something that perhaps not a lot of folks have to deal with, but if you know someone who does, hopefully you understand the condition a little better. - 30450

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Don't Let A Fear Of Taking Tests Hold You Back

By Trevor Johnson

Everyone experiences a fear of taking tests sometime in their life. If you have test anxiety, you are one of the millions. A certain degree of fear is often associated with test taking. However, there are some steps you can take to help decrease it. The following paragraphs will discuss some of these tips and techniques.

Shortness of breath is one of the side effects from test anxiety. When we do not breath properly, it causes a lack of oxygen flow to our brains. When there is not enough oxygen in the brain, our stress levels rise. By learning some breathing exercises, and doing them before and during tests, you can help beat the fear of taking tests.

Regular exercise is a good way to relieve stress, even if its low impact exercise such as water aerobics or yoga. Regular exercise aids in muscle relaxation, thus, reduces anxiety. Participating in regular physical activity can greatly decrease your stress levels and help you overcome your fear of taking tests.

If you are like many other people, you may lead a busy life causing you to eat your meals on the run. If this is the case, you probably are not getting the proper nutrition your body needs. Poor eating habits can greatly add to the chances you will experience fear of taking tests. You should try to eat healthy in order to help eliminate stress and fear over exams and tests.

Lastly, in order to be at your best during a test or exam, you need to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep. If you get the proper amount of sleep your mind will be rested for the test taking process. Your test anxiety will be reduced and so will your fear of taking tests.

Some people experience extreme anxiety when it comes down to taking tests. In certain cases, test anxiety cannot be overcome by using these techniques. Perhaps you are one of the people who suffers with an extreme test taking anxiety. If so, you may want to consult with your doctor about the best methods to help you overcome your fears. - 30450

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What Causes The Fear Of Strangers?

By Trevor Johnson

The official and medical name for people with a fear of strangers is Xenophobia. This not only covers people who have a fear of strangers, but also for people afraid of foreigners and other people different to themselves. Xeno means a guest or stranger and phobia means to have a fear.

A fear of people different to yourself does not only mean people that may be from a different culture, but they can be people who look very different to yourself, have a much higher level of confidence or somebody with entirely different views to what you believe in. People who speak in a different language or have strange habits are also feared by such people.

Xenophobia is something not decided on, but more like a natural instinct to the person holding the fear. People feeling these emotions strongly feel genuinely that other people who are different to themselves in any shape or form could be something to be wary of, so they usually either confront or back well away from the potential danger.

There are many Xenophobics who suffer in such an extreme way that it causes them to become nasty and violent towards others. They can last out and say rude and racist remarks. The majority of sufferers, however will stay calm and deal with it away from others in a safe place.

Throughout history and even today, tribes across the world follow some kind of Xenophobia and will fight any tribes different to themselves. This just shows how many different levels it comes it and how widespread it can be.

Hitler is the most famous person to have fought and killed over this fear. It is thought that he genuinely was scared of people different to himself and in retaliation had them all killed as history bears witness. This is probably one of the very most extreme cases of such issues. - 30450

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"Doctors, Psychiatrists and Therapists Have All Failed To Cure Social Anxiety, Find Out Why?"

By Jan West

If you suffer from social anxiety disorder (panic attacks) then no doubt you have searched high and low for a fix. Yes, you've read the Internet sales pitches of the many so-called fast-fix remedies available ... all pitched at you in a slick manner, all meant to get you to buy their product. What do they offer? Well there are many downloads if you have a few days to sit by your computer spending your time and money on useless file after file of unnecessary clutter.

All of these packages are in essence designed to tempt you to give them a try. They pitch to you that they too suffered from the same disorder and miraculously discovered through trial and error the very fix you desire. And from thereon in you're hooked! In all fairness, most of the stuff you are downloading is little more than wasteful bulk, giving you the impression you have something for your money!

In truth these products are of little worth and not even worth using to prop open a door. To add to your already bulging downloads, you can opt in for the special once in a lifetime offer of purchasing a special set of... OK, you get the message.

Top rated self-help author Stephen Richards says, "You cannot train anyone to overcome social anxiety attacks! Hypnosis is a very long drawn out affair, although yes it works but only if you have at least 10 sessions. This all adds to the strain on your already diminishing nest egg of cash. "

Over the years the social phobia therapy business has pulled in big bucks by taking advantage of the instability of those seeking treatment. To start undoing the onset of where these panic attacks started from first requires a modicum of acknowledgment that you have a problem and then being prepared to tackle it head on, and in a direct way.

Look at it this way, if you are immersed over prolonged periods in the very act of ridding yourself of social anxiety disorder then that in itself will protract the very thing you are trying to resolve. The very same panic attack you want to avoid will manifest itself at the least expected time. This could be in the form of chest tightness, increased heart rate, dizziness, uncontrolled sweating, shortness of breath, headaches, obsessive thoughts and more.

You see the smiling faces of past anxiety sufferers, saying they did everything and anything before trying the product on offer and voila! It worked, amazingly! No doubt these people are all good honest folk, and all the testimonies are no doubt all real, too. It all lends itself to the support of the product and for garnering your belief that it works. Of course, it all leads to the bottom of the web page, building up to the big sell. So it is simple to be trapped in the belief that what is on offer is the real deal.

Many of these products use subliminal messaging, where the words are embedded in the music or background sounds, these are wasteful of your time. Subliminal messages should not scare you. Scientific studies have proven that if the subconscious mind is intentionally programmed with positive thoughts that soon the conscious mind will begin to act with the information and positive results will be obtained. But why make it so difficult to take in?

What if there was something that actually worked better than subliminal messaging? What if it were self-hypnosis? Well that may work to bolster up your confidence levels when you are alone, but just try that in a social anxiety setting! See what happens, or rather what does not happen.

The real groundbreaking technology that has made a breakthrough in the cure of social anxiety disorder is very, very simple! In the most advanced cure for social anxiety phobia, International Best-selling Self-help Author Stephen Richards has done away with the need for self-hypnosis or the use of subliminal messaging.

One of the main gripes many people have had with using social anxiety products is the use of hypnosis, they do not feel that they have benefited. The answer to this problem is that it takes many, many hours of hypnosis to fix such deep-seated problems. It is not like fixing one part of the mind ... there are many zones to repair and during the course of hypnosis all these zones are tackled ... one session at a time! A long and drawn out process! This is where the "Releasing You From Social Anxiety CD" differs, it actually zones in on the exact area needing help. With advanced technology it tackles the area most in need, and all in an above board way. You get to hear everything what is being said.

Stephen Richards has developed a method to help overcome social anxiety disorder that is so simple. Just one 20 minute session can do what others claim to do in tens of hours. One other criterion he stipulated was that it had to be inexpensive so that anyone could afford it. After working on this project and fine tuning it, Stephen Richards was happy to proceed to the stage of where it became available to the public for less than the cost of a film DVD.

The method developed by Stephen Richards for overcoming social anxiety disorder is one of simplicity, far less complicated or time consuming than anything you will find on the market today. Where other modicums of therapy take weeks and weeks to achieve results, this can be achieved in just one 20 minute session of the "Releasing You From Social Anxiety CD"! Surely these claims are somewhat exaggerated? Well, if you are aware of how Stephen Richards works then you will know that unless he is 100% happy with anything then he will not make it available to the public, simple as that. He has even pulled products from being sold because he felt they were either not up to standard or too advanced. And now knowing you have someone on your side it should make you more confident to be able to tackle panic attacks head on and in a no-holds barred way. After infinite development, the "Releasing You From Social Anxiety CD" is the answer to many social phobics' prayers.

In disappointment, Stephen Richards says, "When I saw what some so-called therapists were charging for what was little more than a collection of wasteful items I was quite determined to provide a better level of help and at a fair price. You might say my therapist's mind went into action. If anything is to be accepted as genuine it must be clear as crystal, be affordable by all and must be able to do what it says on the box. - 30450

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