Exploring the Facts on Anxiety Disorders

Unveiling the Realities Surrounding Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a common mental health issue in the United States, affecting around 40 million adults at some point in their lives. These disorders are characterized by feelings of fear, apprehension, and excessive worry, and can significantly impact daily life.

One common misconception about anxiety disorders is that people with these disorders believe that once they're in an anxiety-provoking situation, the anxiety will last forever. According to psychologist Dr. Foa, this is not the case. Anxiety is a cognitive, emotional, and behavioral process that alerts us to potential future threat, but it does not mean that the anxiety will persist indefinitely.

Another misconception is that anxiety disorders cause physical symptoms such as fainting or passing out. However, as Dr. Rego explains, fainting is very rare during anxiety episodes. The physiological component of anxiety and panic may include symptoms such as dizziness, shallow breathing, sweating, and heart palpitations. We feel dizzy and lightheaded during anxiety because our bodies start breathing more rapidly and intensively.

It's important to note that the feeling of breathlessness during a panic attack is harmless and is the body's way of sending more oxygen to bodily tissues. Panic attacks do not cause one to pass out, as Dr. Chapman states.

When anxious, most people experience a rise in their blood pressure, not a drop, contrary to another common myth.

Anxiety disorders are treatable, and talking with a mental health professional can help you understand and gain more control of your anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective, time-limited treatment for anxiety disorders, according to Dr. Chapman. CBT helps individuals understand bodily processes, restructure anxiety-fueling thoughts, and tolerate physical sensations and anxiety-triggering situations.

It's helpful to identify the thoughts that fuel anxiety and panic, and revise them to more evidence-based thoughts, such as "These symptoms are normal" or "I can tolerate this." Anxiety involves thoughts of uncontrollability and unpredictability of future events, while panic involves thoughts of present danger, viewing symptoms as dangerous.

When uncomfortable bodily sensations arise, interpreting them as a sign of a panic attack or danger further boosts arousal and activates challenging thoughts and a strong urge to escape. However, it's crucial to remember that anxiety and panic symptoms are harmless.

For those seeking mental health support, Psych Central's "How to Find Mental Health Support" resource can be a helpful starting point. This resource provides guidance on finding a therapist and navigating the process of seeking mental health treatment.

In conclusion, anxiety disorders are common, treatable, and characterized by feelings of fear, apprehension, and excessive worry. It's essential to challenge common misconceptions about anxiety disorders, seek support when needed, and understand that anxiety and panic symptoms are harmless. With the right support and treatment, it's possible to manage and overcome anxiety disorders.