In an era of growing mental health awareness, our ability to recognize and understand our own emotions has become increasingly important. Distinguishing between ordinary anxiety and an anxiety disorder can be challenging. Anxiety, broadly defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease—especially about an imminent event or an uncertain outcome—is a common facet of everyday life. However, it’s crucial to discern when this emotion transitions from something manageable to something that begins to control us.

The benefits of Anxiety

Giving a presentation in front of a large group.

Taking a big test.

Going on a first date.

It is common to feel anxious prior to an event such as these and others alike. Anxiety is our internal warning system that alerts us to potential threats; also known as the ‘fight or flight’ response. In these previously mentioned scenarios, anxiety can work for us. It causes us to be more alert and aware of our surroundings. Manageable stress and anxiety can give us positive behaviors such as increased motivation, preparation, attention, and communication. Feeling anxious about a presentation, healthy anxiety can drive extra preparation to help feel more confident.

Our Natural response

When we identify situations or triggers that make us anxious, it’s natural to want to steer clear of them. For instance, if you’re afraid of public speaking, you might avoid it altogether. If first dates make you nervous, you might decide to stop dating. This is a common response that many of us share.

However, continuously avoiding situations that provoke anxiety can backfire. Instead of reducing anxiety, avoidance tends to make it even more intense. A healthier approach to dealing with anxiety is to focus on “anxiety management” rather than “anxiety avoidance.”

Results of unhealthy coping

When we consistently avoid life’s stressors, we miss an opportunity to teach our brains how to bounce back and move beyond those anxiety-inducing moments. Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive and persistent worry that feels overwhelming and beyond our control.

Think of it like riding a bike: If we fall off and never get back on, we’ll never learn to balance again. Similarly, if we don’t address how we respond to anxiety regularly and consistently, it can lead to disruptive behaviors such as excessive overthinking, an inability to handle uncertainty, difficulty concentrating, and a struggle to relax.

These behaviors can significantly impact various aspects of our lives, including our relationships, work, and even our sense of self.

Post-pandemic Anxiety

As we’ve all experienced, navigating life in a post-pandemic society can bring about significant anxiety. In this new reality, it’s crucial to prioritize anxiety management over avoidance. Simple activities, such as dining with friends or going to the grocery store, may now trigger anxiety like never before, and that’s entirely normal in times like these.

While taking precautions for our health and safety is vital, avoiding everyday interactions with others can have adverse effects on our overall well-being. It’s essential to embrace healthy coping mechanisms that help us build resilience and recover from anxiety. These practices will play a significant role in our journey to feeling like ourselves again in this evolving landscape.

In conclusion, anxiety is a natural response deeply ingrained in our human experience. While it can be overwhelming at times, it also possesses the power to motivate us, sharpen our focus, and help us prepare for challenges. However, when left unmanaged or avoided entirely, anxiety can take a toll on our well-being, leading to persistent worries and disruptive behaviors. Remember, you are not alone in this journey as Next STEPS Worldwide offers resources that can help you lead a healthier and more balanced life.