Anxiety : Debunking Myths and Misinformation

Mental illnesses, unlike other ailments are less talked about in general. It cannot be denied that despite moving ahead in time, a worrying social stigma is associated with anxiety and depression. People battling such issues often have chaotic thoughts and find it very difficult to open up to someone and share their feelings.

It is not only the affected person facing trouble, diagnosing someone with anxiety disorder is equally tedious, more so due to the likelihood of these people socially isolating themselves.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), it is the most common form of mental illness affecting 18% of the US population every year. That's a really staggering amount! To put into perspective, 1 out of 5 people in the US suffer from anxiety.

Here are some of the myths you may have come across: 

1. It's all in your head - These are the words that demotivate anxiety victims from talking freely about their underlying problems. The intense rage of emotions that they experience cannot be expressed simply. One can't just "stop thinking" about it. Anxiety is as real as polio and has the potential to cause more harm without external help.

2. Just eat well, workout, rest will take care of itself - It is important to know that mental illnesses too require medical intervention just like other ailments. Depending on the severity of anxiety, dietary changes alone may not be enough. Therapy is an effective way of dealing with suicidal tendencies that one might experience. medications may be prescribed as well.

3. Medications should not be taken since they're addictive - Antidepressants are not addictive if taken in the short term. Do not let this myth deny a person access to medications.

The exact cause of anxiety disorders cannot be pinpointed since it involves a lot of variables like genetic factors, childhood trauma, etc. It is classified into various types such as Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), PTSD and other panic disorders. What makes this particularly interesting is that anxiety often co-exists with other types of mental illnesses like depression, ADHD and OCD.

Now, you must be thinking, "What should I do when I keep having anxious or suicidal thoughts?" The answer is complicated albeit the first step is to acknowledge your emotions. Express your thoughts and talk to someone preferably, a professional.

Whom do you approach - a psychologist, psychiatrist?

The subtle difference between the two is that psychiatrists are trained medical doctors who use medications as a primary way of treatment. On the contrast, psychologists make use of therapy sessions to help patients overcome their mental and emotional barriers.

What should you do if you know a person who might be suffering from anxiety? Talk to them. Make them feel comfortable. Judging the person or invalidating their feelings would only make matters worse.

If the person is happy to share their thoughts with you, all you have to do is listen. Suggest them to take a professional consultation as well.

If you tend to be anxious most of the times and feel a sense of loneliness or emptiness, you're not alone. Brooding over it makes no difference. Hence the important part here is not to hesitate in asking for help.

The first step towards identifying a problem is to accept the problem. This is not going to be easy at all, but you need help, so 'take it'.