If your anxious experiences are becoming intolerable there are certain signs you should not ignore

It is not unusual to experience feelings of anxiety or worry from time to time, but for some people these feelings can be ongoing and debilitating.

Anxiety is a normal part of life, so it may not always be simple to distinguish when it may have developed into an unhealthy preoccupation.

Sindisiwe Mlotshwa, a counselling psychologist who practises at Akeso Parktown in Johannesburg, said anxiety typically consists of physical, emotional and mental reactions and in moderation these reactions are quite normal and may even be helpful.

“In small doses, anxiety can help protect us from danger and help focus our attention when tasks need to be completed. However, when these reactions occur too frequently and are more severe, they can begin to affect our work performance, relationships and quality of life,” she said. When worry and anxiety begin to manifest to the point where they are becoming unmanageable, the person could be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Signs you should take note of according to Mlotshwa includes:

1. Uncontrollable worry

2. Excessive nervousness

3. Sleep problems

4. Muscle tension

5. Poor concentration

6. Increased heart rate

7. Upset stomach

8. Avoidance of situations that may cause fear, or the fear itself

“When these symptoms become both too frequent and severe for those affected to manage, it is important to seek professional help.”

Mlotshwa said there are multiple types of anxiety disorders, including social anxieties or social phobia, separation anxieties and panic attacks.

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“Professional help is available and there are various ways of treating and navigating anxiety, which may be useful either on their own or in combination,” she explained.

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She added that exercise can be very helpful, as it promotes the healthy production of serotonin and endorphins to help regulate anxious feelings. Source: Akeso