What is Anxiety? (And How to Deal With It)

Do you ever feel like your heart is racing for no apparent reason? Or maybe you have a constant feeling of worry that just won't go away? Ever feel like your mind is racing with thoughts that you can't seem to control, even when you try to relax? These could be signs of something called anxiety. But what exactly is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal emotion that everyone feels from time to time. It's your body's way of reacting to stress or danger. Think of it like your body's alarm system - it's there to help keep you safe. But sometimes, this alarm system can go into overdrive, causing you to feel anxious even when there's no real danger present.

Understanding Anxiety Better

Imagine you're walking in the woods and suddenly you hear a loud rustling in the bushes. Your heart starts pounding, your palms get sweaty, and you feel a surge of adrenaline - that's your body's way of preparing to either fight or flee from the danger. This is a natural response known as the "fight or flight" response, and it's what helps us survive in threatening situations.

Here’s another common example: Picture yourself standing in front of a classroom about to give a presentation. Your stomach starts churning, your hands feel clammy, and you struggle to find your words - these are all signs of anxiety kicking in. It's like your body is preparing for a challenge, even though there's no physical danger present. This reaction is your body's way of responding to stress, but sometimes it can feel overwhelming.

But what happens when your body reacts like this to everyday situations, like going to work or school or talking to new people? That's when anxiety becomes a problem. It can interfere with your daily life and make it hard to focus, sleep, or even enjoy activities you used to love.

Types of Anxiety

There are different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, among others. Each one has its own set of symptoms, but they all involve excessive worry and fear that can be hard to control.

Is It Stress or Anxiety?

You know, it's totally normal to feel stressed out from time to time—we all do! Stress is like that little nudge from life telling us, "Hey, things are a bit overwhelming right now, take a breather." It's that feeling you get when you're juggling a million things at once, but deep down, you know you'll get through it. But, what’s the difference between stress and anxiety?

Anxiety can sometimes feel like stress's overprotective cousin. It's that persistent worry or fear that just won't quit, even when there's no clear threat in sight. While stress tends to come and go with life's ups and downs, anxiety can stick around like an unwanted guest, making everyday tasks feel like climbing a mountain. But hey, the good news is that both stress and anxiety are totally manageable with a little self-care and support from those around you.

How to Cope and Deal With Anxiety

So, what can you do if you think you might have anxiety? First of all, it's important to know that you're not alone. Anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. And the good news is, there are ways to manage it.

1. Relaxation Techniques: One of the most effective ways to cope with anxiety is through relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. These methods can help calm your mind and body when you're feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s a short 4 minute example you can try, right now:

2. Physical Health: It's also important to take care of your physical health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. When your body feels good, your mind is more likely to follow suit.

3. Support System: Talking to someone you trust about how you're feeling can also be incredibly helpful. Whether it's a friend, family member, or mental health professional, opening up about your struggles can help lighten the load and provide you with much-needed support.

3. Mindfulness: Incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help calm your mind and alleviate feelings of anxiety. For example, using the deep breathing exercise above or meditation (and this doesn’t just mean sitting in one position quietly. You can find out more in our blog about Mindfulness). By staying present and acknowledging your thoughts and emotions without judgment, you can cultivate a greater sense of inner peace and resilience to navigate life's challenges with more clarity and calmness.

4. Self-Compassion: And finally, remember to be kind to yourself. Living with anxiety can be tough, but it doesn't define who you are. You're so much more than your struggles, and with time and support, you can learn to manage your anxiety and lead a fulfilling life.

So, the next time you're feeling anxious, remember that it's okay to reach out for help. You deserve to feel happy and at peace, and there are people out there who want to help you get there. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that you're not alone, and know that brighter days are ahead. 

If you’re struggling to manage your anxiety, worries. and stress, we can help. Reach out today.

Anxiety Treatment in Chicago and Illinois

At Mindful Healing Counseling, we understand the challenges that come with living with anxiety. That's why our team comprises several therapists specialized in anxiety treatment, offering counseling services virtually to individuals residing in Chicago and throughout Illinois.

Our therapists are experienced and trained in working with people dealing with various concerns such as anxiety, trauma, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, setting boundaries, managing family dynamics, navigating grief, and more. We prioritize providing affirming spaces for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals. We offer a range of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based approaches, relational therapy, and more. Our services extend to adults of all ages, as well as teens, college students, couples, and families.

Reach out to us today. You can contact us by filling out our contact form or by calling or texting us at 708-419-3171. We're here to support you every step of the way.