Anxiety is worry that is illogical or irrational, worry that is not completely grounded on facts. The stresses that one incurs due to such a disorder take a toil on the person over time. The sufferer may not cope well with daily annoyances and frustrations.
Of all the mental health disorders anxiety disorders are the most common. The statistics vary depending on which research you read but it has been estimated that approximately 30 - 50 percent of the American population may be affected by anxiety disorders.
The ongoing frustrations associated with anxiety disorders can be chronic and debilitating. For some the disorder begins at an early age but for others it is triggered late in life. It seems that no one is completely immune to this disorder.
Many sufferers say they feel anxious most of the time. Obviously this wears on the sufferer and often results in feelings of exhaustion and fatigue. During times of high stress the disorder seems to worsen.
Most sufferers of anxiety attacks complain that the symptoms are frequently accompanied by strange or depressing thoughts and feelings of despair. Anxiety attacks happen very suddenly without warning. The sufferer may experience any or several symptoms, such as hypertension, palpitations, sweating, headaches, plus many others.
The most common complaint during an attack is an overwhelming fear. Keep in mind though that the fear is not reality based.
Reality based or not the body will respond as if the fear is real. There is an immediate release of adrenaline which is used effectively in the Fight or Flight response. Because this is not based on a real threat the body will experience and maintain a higher level of symptoms that then escalates into an anxiety attack.
The body and mind give credibility to the symptoms of the anxiety attack which perpetuates more fear and increased symptoms, and so the anxiety cycle is created.
As time goes on and the attacks continue many sufferers limit their activities and social outings according to the anxiety attacks. Some eventually find that they are home more than not and this is their preferred environment because it is a safe zone.
It is not surprising that many sufferers develop depression, particularly if agoraphobia is developed. The sad truth is that many people suffering with anxiety disorders will never seek help.
If you or a loved one needs help with the symptoms of an anxiety disorder you should know that help is available. To learn more about anxiety disorders click on any link in this blog.
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