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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