Anxiety may mean different things to different people. Some people equate it with stress or nervousness. To others, it is about having panic attacks or being afraid of heights or snakes. All of these things are related to anxiety, but it is most important to note that anxiety is a physiological phenomenon that occurs in your body.
If you or someone you know has experienced a panic attack, it often feels like a heart attack. The symptoms are very similar: sweating, heart palpitations, shaking, hyperventilating or trouble breathing, and dizziness. Many people end up in the ER with their first panic attack for this reason! Panic attacks are a clear signal from your body that your anxiety is too high and needs to be addressed.
The good news is, there are many things that can be done to treat anxiety, whether you experience it as a constant nervousness, fear of certain situations, or panic attacks. Treatment should be two-pronged. First, there are coping strategies and exercises to deal with the anxiety when it comes and to prevent anxiety from starting in the first place. These include things such as breathing exercises and changes in lifestyle. Next, the root of the anxiety needs to be discovered, examined, and dealt with. Discussing your anxiety and triggers with a trained therapist can help address core issues and move past the anxiety. Many clients express the feeling of freedom after working in therapy to address their anxiety. In addition, EMDR therapy is a great tool to address this part of the process (see What About EMDR blog post).
More than anything, know that no one has to continue to suffer with anxiety! There is help and healing. Do not wait, set up a session with a Licensed Professional to address your anxiety today!