Anxiety

What is anxiety? Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worry about everyday things. Victims experience: exaggerated worry & tension. Sometimes just the thought of getting through the day produces anxiety.

What causes anxiety? Triggered by stress in our lives Some more vulnerable than others “Negative self-talk” Particular worry for over six months

How do I know if I have anxiety?! Constant worry or stress Tense muscles Trembling Numbness in limbs Heart palpitations Frequent headaches Nausea

Anxiety Disorders affect 6.8 million adults, or 3.1% of the U.S. population, in any given year. Women are twice as likely to be affected. Highest risk between childhood and middle age. Facts

College Students College can be stressful. Anxiety disorders - most common mental health problems on college campuses. Most college & university campuses have mental health resources available.

Managing Anxiety Good nutrition Adequate sleep Exercise Support groups Treatment options

Treatment Success of treatment varies May work instantly or take weeks/months Medications are prescribed by physicians Medications- calm nerves, improves mood, promote relaxation, reduce muscular tension. Can be used as short or long term treatment.

Treatment Therapy is an alternative to medication. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - focuses on identifying, understanding, & changing thinking and behavior patterns. Exposure Therapy - gradual exposure to a feared situation or object, learning to become less sensitive over time. (True Life)

Other Options … Sometimes medication & therapy are not successful Need to maintain self-control Practice breathing & relaxation methods on their own Create methods that work for them

Personal Story Michael Timmermann Grew up with divorced parents, father left when he was six. The abandonment triggered anxiety attacks. Was put on several medications throughout his childhood – none helped. Breakthrough- “Freddie Prinze, Jr. wrote a magazine article detailing the pain of losing his father at a young age. He, too, felt unhappy and alone as a child. I felt as though I were reading my own life story. The only difference? He was now a success.” Plan to change: learning positive self-talk, stopping “what-if” thinking, eliminating caffeine, improving diet, regular exercise, deep breathing exercise. Success!!

More information Anxiety Disorders Association of America – “Anxiety disorders are real, serious, and treatable.” Visit their website to learn more about anxiety disorders.