Anxiety

without knowing can sneak up on you! See if the following relates to you!

Anxiety is a normal state of dread, tension, and unease. It is considered a normal response to stress or uncertain situations.Prolonged or intense periods of anxiety may suggest an anxiety disorder. A disorder may also be indicated if anxiety:

• Occurs without an external threat( "free-floating"anxiety)

• Impair daily functioning

The most common types of anxiety disorders are:

• Phobias
• Post- traumatic stress disorder
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive- compulsive disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder

Anxiety is often complicated by the presence of alcohol or drug abuse and depression:

Causes

• Appropriate response under stressful circumstances
• Drugs that affect the nervous system,such as:
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Cocaine
• Nicotine
  
• Amphetamines ( "crystal meth")
• some herbal medications
• Biological factors:
• Personality traits
  
• Faulty perceptions and irrational beliefs (phobias)
• Unresolved emotional conflicts

Fisk Factors
A risk factor increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.Risk factors for anxiety includes:

• Sex: female
• Family member with anxiety disorders
• Stressful life events
• Ineffective coping strategies
• History of physical or psychological trauma

Symptoms

• Worry or dread
• Obsessive or intrusive thoughts
• Sense of imminent danger or catastrophe
• Fear or panic
  
• Restlessness
• Irritability
  
• Impatience
• Ambivalence
• Trouble concentrating

Physical Symptoms

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Sweating, especially the palms
• Dry mouth
• Flushing or breath
• Light headedness or faintness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Choking sensation
• Frequent urination
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Feeling of "butterflies in the stomach
• Sexual difficulties
• Tingling sensations
• Nail biting or other habitual behavior

Treatment
Lifestyle Changes

• Get sufficient rest and sleep
• If you smoke,quit
• Reduce or eliminate caffeinated beverages
• Drink alcohol in moderation
• Avoid illicit drugs
• Reduce exposure to stressful environments
• Exercise regularly

Relaxation Techniques

• Deep breathing
  
• Meditation
• Deep muscle relaxation
• Massage
• Engaging in pleasurable activities

Social Support

• Strong support system of family and friends
  
• Counseling to improve coping skills
• Support group

Prevention

• Avoid situations,occupations, and people that cause you stress
• If unavoidable, confront and overcome situations that provoke anxiety
• Find a relaxation technique that works for you.Use it regularly
  
• Develop and maintain a strong social support system
• Express your emotions when they happen
• Challenge irrational beliefs and counterproductive thoughts
• Correct misperceptions. Ask others for their views
• Work with a therapist
• Avoid using nicotine or other drugs. Drink alcohol in moderation

Medication
Doctors may prescribe the following:

• Benzodiazepines
• Buspirones
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Other alternatives
Midwest Center - for Stress and Anxiety,LLC
Call for a Free CD on anxiety 1.800.318.7755

* But through all this Jesus is the true healer. He will get you through, if all fails:)