In a world where exams and job interviews have replaced the threat of wild animals, anxiety has become a constant company for many. This disorder is one of the most common mental problems and its prevalence has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why its symptoms have worsened. According to Dr. Eduard Vieta, head of the Psychiatry Service at the Hospital Clínic Barcelona, anxiety “is a physiological reaction that can be compared to pain, although it would be a psychological pain rather than a physical one.”
This analogy allows us to underline the current psychological alarm. Thus, those who suffer from this disorder live on alert for dangers that, in their opinion, are imminent, although they are not even real. Manifestations of anxiety include palpitations, dyspnea, feelings of fear and other distressing physiological changes. Dr. Miquel Àngel Fullana, psychologist at Hospital Clínic Barcelona, points out that anxiety “can affect up to one in three people throughout their lives.”
Anxiety can affect up to a third of people throughout their lives
It is an emotion that everyone experiences in dangerous situations, but “it significantly affects people when it becomes a disorder and persists over time,” explains Dr. Fullana. In this way, anxiety becomes pathological if it is excessive. A moderate degree can even be beneficial, helping to increase performance and motivation. Dr. Vieta distinguishes between “specific anxiety and global anxiety.”
The first often arises in anticipation of hypothetical stressful situations. “We are moving into something that would test us and we are nervous before that happens,” he explains. For example, parents may lie awake and worry about their children’s safety when they are out at night. This is an anxiety based on hypothetical danger that is draining and unproductive. Global anxiety is a constant and excessive worry about everyday issues, and is not limited to specific situations. It can include persistent worries about health, money, family or work, and affects the person’s quality of life.
A certain anxiety increases performance, as long as it is not exaggerated.
Dr. Fullana also distinguishes between different types of anxiety, such as panic and social anxiety. These can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors, with symptoms such as “a feeling that something bad is going to happen, feeling very rushed, and avoiding situations to avoid facing fear.” To manage anxiety, Vieta suggests strategies depending on how severe the case is. . In mild or moderate cases, it is advisable to adopt lifestyle changes, since they can be effective.
But when the disorder exceeds the ability to adapt, it is crucial to seek help from a specialist. “You have to go to a doctor, essentially a psychiatrist,” says Vieta. Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. Fullana adds that psychological treatments, “especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, are very effective.” In this way, the person is provided with psychological tools that help them “transform the way they process information and deal with anxiety.”
With treatment, most people can improve, until the disorder does not limit their life.
Regarding pharmacological treatment, these two experts warn of the dangers of self-medication, “a serious mistake” that, in the words of Dr. Vieta, can lead to panic attacks and other mental health problems. To support someone with anxiety, it is essential to recognize their symptoms and create a calm environment. It can be very helpful to talk to the person during a crisis, using soft words and avoiding loud noises.
Subsequently, it is important to consider whether the anxiety is recurring or not, and seek professional help if necessary. Dr. Vieta points out that methods “to manage anxiety that is not pathological and that is limited to a specific situation” can incorporate relaxation and mindfulness techniques. Dr. Fullana concludes: “With treatment, most people with anxiety disorder can improve greatly, to the point that the disorder does not limit their life.”
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