What to know about anxiety

anxiety is a natural and common human emotion that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. It can be described as a feeling of worry, fear, or unease about future events or situations. While it’s normal to feel anxious from time to time, excessive or persistent anxiety can become a mental health condition that requires attention and treatment.

Here are some key points to know about anxiety:

1. Types of Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive and persistent worry and fear. Some common types include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias.
2. Symptoms: Symptoms of anxiety can vary, but they often include restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and a sense of impending doom or danger.
3. Triggers: Anxiety can be triggered by various factors, including stressful life events, traumatic experiences, genetics, brain chemistry imbalances, and personality traits.
4. Impact on Daily Life: Severe anxiety can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, work, and overall well-being. It may interfere with daily activities and prevent individuals from engaging in certain situations or social interactions.
5. Co-occurring Conditions: Anxiety often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
6. Seeking Help: If anxiety becomes overwhelming and starts interfering with your ability to function normally, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or therapists, can provide support, therapy, and, if necessary, medication to manage anxiety.
7. Treatment Options: Treatment for anxiety can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication (such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs), relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle changes.
8. Self-Help Strategies: In addition to professional help, individuals can adopt self-help strategies to manage anxiety. Regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques (e.g., deep breathing, meditation), maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stressors can be beneficial.
9. Avoiding Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug use may provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms, but they can worsen anxiety in the long run. Avoiding substance abuse is essential for managing anxiety effectively.
10. Building Support: Having a strong support system of friends, family, or support groups can be beneficial for individuals dealing with anxiety. Sharing feelings and experiences with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide valuable insights.

Remember that everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to find a personalized approach to managing anxiety that suits your needs and preferences. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek professional help and support.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

There are several types of anxiety disorders, each characterized by specific symptoms and triggers. The most common types of anxiety disorders include:

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, family, and everyday situations. People with GAD often have difficulty managing their anxiety, and the worries are often disproportionate to the actual circumstances.
2. Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Social anxiety disorder involves an intense fear of social situations and the fear of being judged or scrutinized by others. People with social anxiety may avoid social gatherings or interactions, and their fear can significantly impact their social and occupational functioning.
3. Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by recurring and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes. Panic attacks can be accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, and a feeling of impending doom.
4. Specific Phobias: Specific phobias involve excessive fear and avoidance of a particular object or situation. Common phobias include fear of heights, spiders, flying, needles, and enclosed spaces.
5. Agoraphobia: Agoraphobia is a fear of being in places or situations where escape might be difficult or embarrassing, or where help may not be available in the event of a panic attack. As a result, individuals with agoraphobia may avoid crowded places or situations outside of their comfort zone.
6. Separation Anxiety Disorder: Separation anxiety disorder is more commonly diagnosed in children but can also affect adults. It involves excessive fear or worry about being separated from loved ones or attachment figures, leading to avoidance of separation or distress when separated.
7. Selective Mutism: Selective mutism is primarily diagnosed in children and is characterized by a consistent failure to speak in specific social situations despite speaking comfortably in other settings.

It’s important to note that anxiety disorders can coexist with each other or with other mental health conditions, such as depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These disorders can vary in severity, and some people may experience more than one type of anxiety disorder simultaneously.

If you suspect that you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, it’s essential to seek professional help from a mental health provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both, depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances.

Symptoms

Symptoms of anxiety can manifest in various ways and may differ from person to person. The symptoms can be both physical and psychological. Here are some common symptoms associated with anxiety:

Physical Symptoms:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Sweating excessively
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Muscle tension or aches
• Fatigue or feeling tired easily
• Headaches
• Changes in appetite or digestive issues

Psychological Symptoms:

• Excessive worry or fear about future events or situations
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Irritability or agitation
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
• Racing thoughts
• Catastrophic thinking (expecting the worst to happen)
• Feeling a sense of impending doom or danger
• Trouble sleeping or insomnia
• Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Avoidance of situations or activities that cause anxiety
• Seeking reassurance from others frequently
• Procrastination or difficulty making decisions
• Engaging in compulsive behaviors to reduce anxiety (e.g., checking, counting)
• Self-medicating with substances (e.g., alcohol, drugs) to alleviate anxiety temporarily
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Nail-biting, fidgeting, or other nervous habits

It’s important to note that experiencing occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, especially in stressful or challenging situations. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, and starts interfering with daily life, work, relationships, or overall well-being, it may be an indication of an anxiety disorder that requires attention and support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of anxiety that seem overwhelming or unmanageable, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Anxiety disorders are treatable, and with appropriate support and treatment, individuals can learn effective coping strategies to manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Triggers

Anxiety triggers are situations, events, thoughts, or stimuli that elicit feelings of anxiety or increase the likelihood of an anxiety response. Triggers can vary significantly from person to person, and what triggers anxiety in one individual may not affect another in the same way. Some common anxiety triggers include:

1. Stressful Life Events: Major life changes, such as moving, starting a new job, ending a relationship, or experiencing financial difficulties, can lead to increased anxiety levels.
2. Traumatic Experiences: Past traumatic events, like accidents, abuse, or witnessing a distressing event, can leave lasting emotional imprints and contribute to anxiety.
3. Social Situations: For people with social anxiety disorder, social situations such as parties, public speaking, or meeting new people can be highly anxiety-provoking.
4. Specific Phobias: Phobias, such as fear of heights, animals, flying, or confined spaces, can trigger intense anxiety when confronted with the feared object or situation.
5. Health Concerns: Worrying excessively about health issues or experiencing symptoms of a medical condition can trigger health-related anxiety, sometimes known as illness anxiety disorder (formerly hypochondriasis).
6. Uncertainty: Facing uncertain or unpredictable situations can be anxiety-inducing, especially for individuals who prefer structure and certainty in their lives.
7. Performance or Academic Pressure: For some individuals, pressure to perform well at work, school, or in competitive situations can trigger anxiety.
8. Crowded or Busy Environments: Being in crowded or noisy environments can be overwhelming and anxiety-provoking for some individuals.
9. Media and News: Constant exposure to negative news, violence, or distressing media content can contribute to heightened anxiety levels.
10. Changes in Routine: Disruptions to regular routines or unexpected changes can lead to feelings of anxiety for individuals who rely on structure and predictability.
11. Caffeine or Stimulants: Consuming high doses of caffeine or other stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms in some people.
12. Memories or Triggers of Trauma: Specific sounds, smells, or situations that remind individuals of past traumatic events can trigger anxiety and emotional distress.

It’s essential to recognize and understand your specific triggers if you’re dealing with anxiety. Identifying triggers can help you develop coping strategies and work towards managing anxiety more effectively. If anxiety is significantly impacting your life or causing significant distress, consider seeking professional help from a mental health provider. They can assist in understanding and managing anxiety triggers and provide appropriate treatment and support.

Impact on Daily Life

Anxiety can have a significant impact on daily life, affecting various aspects of an individual’s functioning and overall well-being. The severity of the impact can vary from mild to severe, depending on the type of anxiety disorder and the person’s circumstances. Here are some common ways anxiety can affect daily life:

1. Impaired Performance: Anxiety can hinder a person’s ability to concentrate and make decisions. This may result in reduced performance at work, school, or other tasks that require focus and attention.
2. Avoidance Behavior: People with anxiety disorders may avoid certain situations or activities that trigger anxiety. This avoidance can lead to missed opportunities, social isolation, and difficulties in personal and professional life.
3. Interpersonal Difficulties: Anxiety can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. It may lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, or a sense of detachment from others.
4. Physical Health: Chronic anxiety can take a toll on physical health. It may lead to headaches, digestive issues, muscle tension, fatigue, and an increased risk of other health problems.
5. Sleep Disturbances: Anxiety can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or restless sleep. Poor sleep quality can further exacerbate anxiety, creating a cycle of sleep disturbance and increased anxiety.
6. Emotional Distress: Anxiety can cause emotional turmoil, leading to feelings of sadness, irritability, frustration, and a sense of being overwhelmed.
7. Reduced Quality of Life: Anxiety can impact an individual’s ability to enjoy life and engage in activities they once found pleasurable. This can lead to a decreased overall quality of life.
8. Impact on Daily Routines: Anxiety can disrupt daily routines and responsibilities, making it challenging to maintain regular activities like cooking, cleaning, or self-care.
9. Work and Career Impact: Severe anxiety may lead to difficulties at work, including absenteeism, reduced productivity, and challenges in maintaining employment.
10. Financial Stress: Anxiety can contribute to financial stress, especially if it leads to reduced work capacity or increased healthcare expenses.
11. Substance Use: Some individuals may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances as a way to cope with anxiety, leading to potential substance abuse problems.

It’s important to note that anxiety disorders are treatable conditions, and seeking help from mental health professionals can significantly improve the impact of anxiety on daily life. Therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and coping strategies can all play a role in managing anxiety and improving overall well-being. Early intervention and support are key to minimizing the long-term impact of anxiety on a person’s life.

Co-occurring Conditions

Anxiety disorders commonly co-occur with other mental health conditions. When someone has more than one mental health disorder, it is referred to as a comorbid or co-occurring condition. The combination of anxiety with other disorders can make the overall experience more complex and challenging. Some of the common co-occurring conditions with anxiety disorders include:

1. Depression: Anxiety and depression frequently co-occur, and this combination is often referred to as comorbid anxiety depression. Symptoms of anxiety and depression can overlap, such as feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, changes in appetite, and sleep disturbances.
2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. Many individuals with OCD experience generalized anxiety as well.
3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Anxiety is a common symptom of PTSD and may manifest as hypervigilance, flashbacks, and avoidance of reminders of the trauma.
4. Panic Disorder: Panic disorder may co-occur with other anxiety disorders, especially agoraphobia (fear of places or situations where escape might be difficult).
5. Substance Use Disorders: Some individuals with anxiety disorders may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate and alleviate their anxiety symptoms, leading to the development of substance use disorders.
6. Eating Disorders: Conditions like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder can co-occur with anxiety disorders, particularly social anxiety and generalized anxiety disorder.
7. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can co-occur with anxiety, particularly in children and adolescents.
8. Personality Disorders: Certain personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder or avoidant personality disorder, may have overlapping features with anxiety disorders.

It’s important to recognize the co-occurrence of multiple conditions as it can impact the diagnosis, treatment plan, and overall prognosis. Treating co-occurring conditions often requires an integrated approach, addressing both disorders simultaneously. Mental health professionals may use various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and medications when necessary, to manage both anxiety and any co-occurring conditions effectively.

If you suspect you or someone you know may have multiple co-occurring conditions, seeking professional evaluation and treatment from a qualified mental health provider is essential for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive care.

Seeking Help

Seeking help for anxiety or any mental health concern is an essential step toward understanding and managing your symptoms. If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety or related issues, here are some steps you can take to seek help:

1. Talk to Someone: Reach out to a friend, family member, or someone you trust about what you’re going through. Talking about your feelings can be a helpful first step and can provide emotional support.
2. Consult a Mental Health Professional: Consider scheduling an appointment with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed therapist. They are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat anxiety disorders and related conditions.
3. Contact a Helpline: If you need immediate support or are unsure where to turn, helplines or crisis hotlines can offer assistance. In many countries, there are toll-free helplines staffed by trained professionals available 24/7.
4. Research Online Resources: Many reputable mental health organizations provide online resources and information about anxiety disorders. You can find self-help materials, screening tools, and guidance on seeking professional help.
5. Primary Care Physician: Consider discussing your symptoms with your primary care physician. They can assess your overall health and may refer you to a mental health specialist if needed.
6. Consider Therapy: Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be highly effective in treating anxiety disorders. It helps individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and develop coping strategies.
7. Medication Evaluation: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage anxiety symptoms. A psychiatrist can evaluate your needs and provide appropriate medication if necessary.
8. Support Groups: Consider joining a support group where you can connect with others who share similar experiences. Support groups provide a safe space to share and learn from each other.
9. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress reduction techniques, can complement other treatments for anxiety.
10. Be Patient and Persistent: Recovery from anxiety takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to the treatment plan recommended by your mental health professional.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don’t have to face anxiety alone. Early intervention and treatment can lead to significant improvements in managing anxiety and enhancing overall well-being. If you are unsure where to start, consider talking to your healthcare provider for guidance and referrals to appropriate mental health resources in your area.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for anxiety disorders can vary depending on the severity of symptoms, individual preferences, and the specific type of anxiety disorder. It’s important to work with a qualified mental health professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your needs. Here are some common treatment options for anxiety:

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy):

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used and effective form of therapy for anxiety disorders. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. CBT also teaches coping skills to manage anxious feelings and responses.
• Exposure Therapy: This type of therapy involves gradually facing feared situations or triggers in a controlled and safe environment. Through repeated exposures, anxiety levels decrease as the person learns that their fears are not as threatening as they originally believed.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting anxious thoughts and feelings rather than trying to eliminate them. It helps individuals clarify their values and commit to taking actions aligned with those values, even in the presence of anxiety.

Medication:

• Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed antidepressants that can be effective in treating anxiety disorders.
• Benzodiazepines: These medications may be prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms. However, they are generally not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence and side effects.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity can help reduce anxiety and improve overall mood.
• Stress Management Techniques: Learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anxiety.
• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet that includes whole foods and limits caffeine, alcohol, and sugary snacks can positively impact anxiety levels.
• Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting enough restful sleep as sleep disturbances can worsen anxiety symptoms.

2. Support Groups: Joining support groups where individuals with anxiety can share their experiences and coping strategies can provide a sense of community and understanding.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices can help individuals stay present and reduce excessive worry about the future.
4. Online Therapy: For those who prefer remote options, various online platforms offer therapy services with licensed professionals.

It’s important to note that treatment effectiveness can vary from person to person, and a combination of approaches may be most beneficial. Regular communication with your mental health provider is essential to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Remember that seeking help early can lead to better outcomes in managing anxiety and improving overall well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety, consider reaching out to a mental health professional to discuss treatment options tailored to your needs.

Self-Help Strategies

Self-help strategies can be effective in managing anxiety and reducing its impact on daily life. While self-help techniques are not a substitute for professional treatment, they can complement therapeutic interventions and provide individuals with tools to cope with anxiety more effectively. Here are some self-help strategies for anxiety:

1. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation can help calm the mind and body when feeling anxious.
2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. Replace them with more balanced and realistic thoughts.
3. Create a Worry Journal: Write down anxious thoughts and worries in a journal. This can help gain perspective, track triggers, and recognize patterns.
4. Limit Exposure to Anxiety Triggers: If specific situations or media content trigger anxiety, limit exposure or practice gradual desensitization.
5. Engage in Regular Exercise: Physical activity can reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators.
6. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Aim for regular and adequate sleep, as lack of sleep can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
7. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol consumption can increase anxiety in some individuals. Consider reducing or eliminating them from your diet.
8. Connect with Supportive People: Talk to friends, family members, or support groups about your feelings and experiences. Sharing with others can be comforting and provide validation.
9. Practice Mindfulness: Be present in the moment and non-judgmentally observe your thoughts and feelings. Mindfulness practices can help reduce anxiety and promote emotional regulation.
10. Engage in Creative Activities: Activities like painting, writing, or playing an instrument can be therapeutic and help distract from anxious thoughts.
11. Set Realistic Goals: Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
12. Prioritize Self-Care: Take time for self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as taking a bath, reading, or spending time in nature.
13. Challenge Avoidance: Gradually expose yourself to situations that cause anxiety, and reward yourself for facing your fears.
14. Learn Stress Management Techniques: Explore stress management strategies, such as time management, setting boundaries, and seeking social support.
15. Limit News and Social Media: Limit exposure to distressing news or social media content that can increase anxiety.

Remember that self-help strategies may not work instantly, and it’s okay to seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed or your anxiety persists. A mental health professional can provide guidance, support, and personalized strategies to manage anxiety effectively. Combining self-help techniques with professional treatment can lead to more comprehensive and sustainable anxiety management.

Avoiding Substance Abuse

Avoiding substance abuse is crucial for maintaining good mental health, especially when dealing with anxiety or other mental health conditions. While substances like alcohol and drugs may provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms, they can have detrimental effects on overall well-being and exacerbate anxiety in the long run. Here are some reasons why avoiding substance abuse is essential for managing anxiety:

1. Worsening Anxiety Symptoms: Substance abuse can lead to increased anxiety and panic attacks, making it difficult to cope with anxiety triggers effectively.
2. Dependency and Addiction: Regular use of substances can lead to dependency and addiction, creating a cycle of reliance on substances to manage anxiety.
3. Interference with Treatment: Substance abuse can interfere with the effectiveness of prescribed medications or therapeutic interventions, making it harder to manage anxiety.
4. Health Risks: Substance abuse can lead to various physical and mental health issues, such as liver damage, heart problems, and exacerbation of mental health conditions.
5. Escalating Problems: Substance abuse may lead to financial, legal, and relationship problems, adding further stress and anxiety.
6. Negative Coping Mechanism: Relying on substances to cope with anxiety can prevent individuals from developing healthier coping strategies and addressing the root causes of their anxiety.

If you find yourself turning to substances to cope with anxiety, it’s essential to seek help and support to break the cycle of substance abuse. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Reach Out for Support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional about your struggles with substance use and anxiety. Opening up to others can help you find support and understanding.
2. Seek Professional Help: Consider seeking professional counseling or therapy to address both anxiety and substance abuse issues. A mental health professional can provide guidance and strategies to cope with anxiety without resorting to substances.
3. Join Support Groups: Consider attending support groups that focus on substance abuse or anxiety to connect with others who may have similar experiences and learn from their coping strategies.
4. Engage in Healthy Coping Activities: Replace substance use with healthy coping activities such as exercise, mindfulness practices, hobbies, or spending time with supportive friends and family.
5. Create a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with people who encourage and support your efforts to avoid substance use and manage anxiety in healthier ways.
6. Develop a Safety Plan: If you feel tempted to use substances in moments of high anxiety, create a safety plan that includes calling a friend or family member or engaging in a relaxation technique instead.

Remember that overcoming substance abuse and managing anxiety is a journey that may require time and effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way. Professional help and support can make a significant difference in successfully avoiding substance abuse and improving your overall well-being.

Building Support

Building a strong support system is vital for managing anxiety and promoting overall well-being. Having supportive individuals in your life can provide comfort, understanding, and encouragement during challenging times. Here are some steps you can take to build a supportive network:

1. Reach Out to Family and Friends: Share your feelings and experiences with close family members and friends you trust. Open communication can foster a sense of connection and help them understand your needs better.
2. Join Support Groups: Consider joining support groups or online communities that focus on anxiety or mental health. Interacting with individuals who share similar experiences can provide a sense of validation and belonging.
3. Seek Professional Help: Establish a relationship with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or therapist. They can provide guidance, support, and specialized strategies for managing anxiety effectively.
4. Engage in Social Activities: Participate in social activities or events that interest you. Meeting like-minded people can create opportunities for new friendships and connections.
5. Communicate Your Needs: Let your support network know what kind of support you need, whether it’s a listening ear, practical help, or assistance in finding resources.
6. Educate Your Support Network: Provide information about anxiety and its impact on your life to help others understand your experiences better.
7. Limit Negative Influences: Surround yourself with people who are understanding and supportive. Limit time with individuals who might dismiss or exacerbate your anxiety.
8. Be a Supportive Friend: Building a support system is a two-way street. Be supportive of others in your network, and cultivate reciprocal relationships.
9. Consider Online Support: In addition to in-person connections, online forums, social media groups, and mental health websites can offer virtual support and a sense of community.
10. Embrace Peer Support: Peer support specialists or peers with lived experiences can provide unique insights and empathy in navigating anxiety challenges.
11. Foster Empathy and Understanding: Encourage open conversations about mental health within your support network to foster empathy and reduce stigma.
12. Participate in Group Activities: Engage in group activities, such as exercise classes, workshops, or hobbies, to meet new people with shared interests.

Building a support system takes time and effort, but the benefits of having people who understand and care about you are well worth it. Remember that it’s okay to lean on others for support when needed, and seeking help from a mental health professional can be an essential part of your support system as well. Building a strong support network can contribute to better coping with anxiety and enhancing your overall resilience and well-being.