Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or nervousness. It can manifest in various forms, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of unease, tension, or worry that something bad may happen. It can be a normal response to stress or a specific situation, but when it becomes excessive or persistent, it can interfere with daily life, making things worse which might be easy to do.
Why Does Anxiety Happen?
Anxiety can occur due to a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events. Stressful experiences, trauma, or major life changes can trigger anxiety.
When Does Anxiety Happen?
Anxiety can occur at any time but may be more prevalent during stressful situations, such as before exams, job interviews, or public speaking engagements. It can also arise unexpectedly without an apparent trigger.
People who now don’t know, In ancient India, people faced various stressors that could induce anxiety, such as wars, famines, and societal pressures. For instance, scholars preparing for examinations, soldiers going into battle, or individuals facing societal expectations might have experienced anxiety. It was just that there was less awareness on this topic and was not given much importance on mental health.
In India, addressing anxiety involves a holistic approach that combines medical treatment, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda are traditional practices that promote mental well-being. Seeking professional help from counsellors, psychologists, or psychiatrists is essential for managing severe anxiety.
There are some real life cases where anxiety has made people struggle and how therapy and other solutions can help in anxiety:
Rajesh’s Story: Rajesh, a software engineer, struggled with social anxiety, making it challenging for him to interact with colleagues. Through therapy and support groups, he learned coping strategies and gradually improved his social skills.
Sunita’s Journey: Sunita experienced panic attacks triggered by work stress. With a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), she gained control over her anxiety and resumed her normal life.
Anxiety is a massive issue in India, affecting individuals from all walks of life. By understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and seeking appropriate help, individuals can effectively manage anxiety and lead fulfilling lives. Using several holistic approaches and seeking professional assistance are some crucial steps towards overcoming anxiety.
- Neeharika Rajbhar
