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 by Dr. Rita Louise
Anxiety describes any feeling of worry or dread, usually about events that might potentially happen. Most people experience feelings of anxiety before a big exam, business presentation or first date. Some anxiety about stressful events is normal, but for a number of people, anxiety can interfere with their ability to enjoy life.
When worry becomes excess, chronic and unremitting, it is classified as an anxiety disorder. It is a psychological stress response typically brought about by a prolonged thought process. There are a number of different types of anxiety disorders including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Each has its own distinctive features but are held together by a common theme: excessive, irrational fear.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is fear about the future. It is characterized by excessive thinking and dwelling on the “what if’s” in life. Typically, these individuals are unable to shut their minds off and stop the incessant thinking, which can incapacitate them. Often the person believes there is no way out of their feelings of worry, dread or disaster, which leaves them feeling depressed and fatigued.
Individuals are diagnosed with general anxiety disorder when their symptoms last for more than six months. Many times there are no concrete triggers that provoke episodes of uncontrollable anxiety. Their worries can be about everyday things, like their jobs, finances, health or family to more mundane issues such as chores, car repairs or being late for an appointment.
Other symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder may include headaches, trembling, twitching, irritability, frustration and an inability to concentrate. Sufferers may also feel nauseated or as if they have a lump in their throats. Many also find it difficult to relax and tend to remain in a state of constant motion. S leep disturbances can also occur.
Thankfully, there are a number of natural and alternative health remedies that can be used to help reduce anxiety and create feelings of peace and calmness.
Recommendations For Wellness
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Create a scale from 1 to 10 to track how you feel. Rate yourself every day, with ten being the most anxious and one being the least. If you score high, take the time to reflect on what may have caused your increased anxiety.
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Focus on what is going on in your life, identifying what is causing the anxiety and adjusting your life accordingly. Changing jobs, ending a relationship or moving to a different location can often alleviate the anxiety being experienced.
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Take time to relax every day. It has been shown that people who spend a few minutes every day relaxing, meditating or exercising experience less anxiety.
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Talk to a counselor, therapist or psychologist about what is going on. They may be able to teach you methods and techniques you can use to alleviate and reduce your anxiety.
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Try soaking in a hot Epsom salt bath for 15 to 20 minutes. Epsom salts are made up of magnesium sulfate crystals, which can help calm the body and mind.
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Avoid caffeine or other stimulating substances.
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Until recently, kava kava was the predominate remedy for anxiety. Because of potential side effects, kava should only be taken under medical supervision.
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Gaba (gama-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid that decreases neuron activity and inhibits nerve cells from over firing. In can be taken to calm the body and slow the thought processes without drowsiness or addiction.
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This information is provided for educational purposes only.
The descriptions of nurtritional supplements are based on the historical usage of the various ingredients. They are not intended to promote any direct or implied health claims, and actual results of usage can vary.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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