Anxiety is a fancy and multifaceted condition that may manifest in various degrees and kinds. Mild anxiety, comparable to worry that’s manageable or feeling nervous, may function a motivator to raised performance. Moderate anxiety may interfere with normal every day routines and difficulty concentrating, stomach discomfort, or noticeable tension. Severe and panic-level anxiety, with symptoms of dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and feelings of impending doom, often require skilled intervention.Â
Anxiety disorders can manifest in various ways, including persistent and excessive worry (Generalized Anxiety Disorder), sudden and intense panic attacks (Panic Disorder), extreme fear of social situations (Social Anxiety Disorder), intense fear triggered by specific objects or situations (Specific Phobias), recurrent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), re-experiencing trauma with flashbacks and nightmares (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and excessive fear of separation from attachment figures (Separation Anxiety Disorder).
Common symptoms across these disorders include restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and avoidance behaviors.Â
For the believer, trust in God is a strong solution to reconcile problems with anxiousness. In helping a friend, compassion and thoughtful support reveal real care in considering others’ interests above our own (Philippians 2:4). However, depending on the degree of hysteria, the most effective support could possibly be to direct the person to knowledgeable Christian counselor, beyond the lay person’s expertise.Â
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Sarah Mason