Anxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the US annually, making them the most common mental illness. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) says only 36.9 percent of people with anxiety disorders get treatment despite being highly treatable.
If you’re suffering from an anxiety disorder, what can you do to overcome the feeling of intense worry and fear?
Overcoming Anxiety Disorders
Therapy is one way to treat anxiety disorders, whether you’re experiencing panic attacks, unrelenting worries, or obsessive thoughts. This treatment provides several benefits, such as:
- Uncovering the causes of your anxiety
- Learning how to relax
- Looking at situations in less frightening ways
- Developing better-coping skills
The common anxiety disorders in the US are:
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) affects 15 million adults and is equally common in men and women.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affects 6.8 million adults in the country, but only 43.2 percent receive treatment.
- Panic Disorder (PD) – about 6 million adults have PD in the country. This is more common in women than in men.
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is another way to relieve your anxiety. CBD won’t give you a “high” feeling, unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound present in the marijuana plant.
A survey shows that nearly 62 percent of CBD users use the substance to treat medical conditions, including pain, anxiety, and depression. However, researchers are still looking for more evidence on how CBD oil may help treat anxiety issues. Some studies suggest CBD may influence receptors involved in serotonin’s modulation, a chemical messenger that regulates anxiety.
Before taking CBD products, make sure it’s legal in your area. In Oklahoma, you can find dispensaries that provide CBD products in different formulas, from concentrates and waxes to edibles. Check if they have a license from the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) to ensure you get quality products.
It’s normal to experience occasional anxiety. But how would you know you’re already dealing with a more serious problem, which can interfere with your daily life?
Excessive Feeling of Worry and Fear
Anxiety disorders usually manifest through intense worry and fear about everyday circumstances. You may also experience a panic attack, a strong feeling of fear and anxiety that happens unexpectedly.
Symptoms may vary based on your anxiety disorder. According to the Mayo Clinic, the common signs of anxiety include:
- Feeling nervous, restless, or tense.
- Having an increased heart rate
- Having a sense of impending danger or panic
- Experiencing hyperventilation
- Trembling
- Feeling weak or tired.
Consult a medical professional when your anxiety begins to affect your daily life. It’s also best to seek medical help when your stress becomes hard to control.
The causes of anxiety are not fully clear yet. But some life experiences, like traumatic events, can trigger anxiety disorders. It can also be a sign of underlying medical illness. Once you experience symptoms of diseases, act immediately before they cause other serious medical problems. Remember, help is always available.
