What's Your Anxiety Variety?

It's true that we are the most connected human beings in history. I could speak to people in several countries at the same time without having to leave the house. 

Yet - in the midst of this incredible technology, most of us are feeling alone. Imagine that? Our ancestors would turn in their graves if they saw what the world is like now. 

We are social creatures, and we crave the human experience and yet we rely on technology more than ever.

How often do you speak to a computer instead of a real person during your day?

How do you make your breakfast?

Many things are automatic at the push of a button or an instant command. It's no wonder we crave human connections.

How do you really feel inside your own skin? Do you ever stop to think about your true feelings rather than ask your cell phone to diagnose your stomach ache or your friends nasty blister? Why don't we go see a doctor when we are in pain? 

Anxiety has been rising steadily since the 1950's, and it's our younger generation that is affected the most. School and college kids are suffering from higher anxiety than psychiatric patients did decades ago.

I see it in my colleagues and students every single day.

Anxiety can happen to anybody, but we don't talk about it. 

Maybe we should. 

Do you worry about stuff all the time? Is your mind full of noise?

I can guarantee that most people you know have suffered from anxiety at some point this year. 

Anxiety is the emotion that you feel involving tension, fear and worry. It's a response to a threat or a perceived threat. Anxiety triggers a stress reaction in the body which manifests in several physical ways:

Increased heart rate.

Faster breathing.

Sweating.

Irritated

Tense muscles

Concentration

Problems sleeping

Anxiety in daily life

Anxiety doesn't just happen when you are afraid. Daily life is full of situations that could go wrong.

You might worry about a change at work which will affect you and your team. Kids often worry about turning in homework.

You might worry about a presentation that you are about to give to a global audience via zoom. Kids worry about overcoming barriers to learning, and keeping up with peer pressures.

You might be someone who worry about going to work for whatever reason.

Anxiety is common in our society, but it's not talked about. People are left to suffer when there are simple strategies that can help.

So, how do you know what anxiety you carry in your body?

Let's do a quick experiment. You'll need a pen and paper.

I want you to close your eyes for a moment. Breathe slowly. Notice your heart beat as you become attuned to your inner body. 

Where do you notice your anxiety? Where do you feel tension inside your body?

Open you eyes and draw a stick man carrying your anxiety. 

What did you draw? Where is your anxiety? How do you really feel?

Strategies to Reduce Anxiety

Self care - Think about how you are taking care of yourself.

Relaxation techniques

Exercise

Getting enough sleep

Reduce caffeine intake and other stimulants such as sugary drinks.

Talking to a friend how you feel.

Therapy - Is it time to go see someone about how you are feeling?

If your anxiety is severe, it might be a good idea to find a skilled therapist who can help you with targeted strategies.

Medications - Do you need help to feel better?

Your doctor can prescribe medicines to be relieve your symptoms.

Preventing Anxiety from happening

Don't tell yourself not to worry because it won't make your problems disappear. The act of worrying is a response to situations.

Here are a few simple ways that you can do to make your life a little less chaotic:

Try out a meditation app like "Calm." Meditation will make you stop thinking about your situation and focus your mind elsewhere. This can work on communication too. Instead of zoning out of conversations, you tune back in to what the person is telling you. What did they say?

Don't let negative thoughts settle in your head. Instead, wash them away and let them go. Imagine a river and watch your thoughts flow away into oblivion. Or you could put your hands under the faucet and let the water sluice over your hands as your thoughts vanish between your fingers.

Write those negative thoughts down. Doodle or draw if that's your thing.

Write a list of best / worst case scenario.

Exercise.

Practice mindfulness.

Relaxation / yoga.

Listen to music.

Will this matter in a week?

Maintain a balanced diet.

Ask yourself: What if?

Anxiety has become the new normal and it shouldn't get in the way of your life. Taking care of yourself and your mental health should always come first, before you do anything else.

Think about this. If you fall apart, who takes care of you?

My name is Lizzy. I'm a trauma survivor, a wife, a mom, a teacher, and an author.

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For more about me: www.elizabethwoodsauthor.com

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