Stranger Anxiety in Children- Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Stranger Anxiety in Children- Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Stranger anxiety is an uneasy feeling in a child's mind when meeting someone new
Stranger anxiety is an uneasy feeling in a child’s mind when meeting someone new

One thing that almost every parent experience in their life is their little baby feeling hesitant to get to the relative’s arms. It is very common for babies to feel so. While it may be the wish of every friend or family member of yours to put your child in their arms out of love, the anxious nature of your baby may stop this. Stranger anxiety is the term used for such behavior in a baby that eventually fades away as a child grows. This condition is not born by birth and you will notice it also. But, as soon as your little baby feels an affection for you (parent) which normally occurs when he gets 6 to 8 months old, he can get anxious while you pass your child to someone else’s arm. This thing can become even irritating when you’re busy or when you need some resting time. To clear all your doubts about this strangely normal problem, we have covered every common aspect about stranger anxiety.

What is stranger anxiety?

Stranger anxiety is a fearful feeling in a baby when getting to the arms of someone unfamiliar
Stranger anxiety is a fearful feeling in a baby when getting to the arms of someone unfamiliar

Stranger anxiety is the term used for a baby who feels uneasy and fearful when getting to the arms of someone unfamiliar. Stranger anxiety is completely normal in general and is often looked as a milestone in the development of a child. Stranger anxiety is a part of baby’s development stage.

Stranger anxiety typically emerge when a child gets 6 to 8 months old. It’s effect however vanishes out as the child keeps growing and learning about the outer world. A child with stranger anxiety feels internally that their relationship with their parents and caretakers is different from the relationship with other people. This feeling reaches it’s peak when a child is 12 to 15 months old making them feel distressed while around unfamiliar people.

What causes stranger anxiety?

When a child comes in contact with someone unfamiliar, he feels distressed causing stranger anxiety
When a child comes in contact with someone unfamiliar, he feels distressed causing stranger anxiety

Stranger anxiety is a common appearing threat that is actually a part of child’s growth process. This anxiety develops when a child reaches the age of around 8 months. The development of a child is actually quite significant during this period. The child learns to identify objects and people. They assume an object permanence making babies believe there’s an object or person even if it’s not. The baby can differentiate familiar and unfamiliar faces.

A child at such age cannot identify where you have gone or when you will come back. He/she will assume you as someone unfamiliar if you are not visible to him/her daily. They get an understanding that the parents and carers are unique people. When they come in contact with someone unfamiliar or get separated from their caretakers, they feel distressed. This distress, however, wipes away as the child keep growing and develops a knowledge about people around. Stranger anxiety in babies lasts normally till 2 years only.

Symptoms of stranger anxiety

Stranger anxiety causes stress in babies that they express in different ways
Stranger anxiety causes stress in babies that they express in different ways

Stranger anxiety creates a fearful feeling in the mind of a baby or children when they see someone who they do not know. Different babies may show different signs to express their distress since they do not know how to communicate. They may be distressed when around family members or babysitters they do not know. A baby may create anxiety for a person whom they don’t see frequently and express it uniquely.

Freezing in the arms of an unknown is one way to express their anxiety. A baby will give frightening expressions with a still face. The baby may start feeling comfortable in their lap or further show their distress with an obvious option of crying. Some babies show their discomfort by clinging tightly or by hiding their face in your chest. The way they react to such anxiety may depend upon various personality factors like their temperament.

The symptoms of stranger anxiety begins when a baby is around 8 months old and stays till the toddler phase in over which is completed by age of 3. Normally, a toddler learns to feel comfortable around people. But, in rare cases stranger anxiety can last longer making it a matter of concern. Stranger anxiety can make a child socially anxious. Such child feels embarrassed around strangers and experience sudden anxiety rise when exposed to social situations. Such anxiety may last for over 6 months and can make a child avoid social interactions in total.

How to treat stranger anxiety?

Stranger anxiety can be a matter of worries sometimes which can be treated with simple methods
Stranger anxiety can be a matter of worries sometimes which can be treated with simple methods

While stranger anxiety is completely normal and is looked as a milestone in a child’s growth process, it may seem to upset parents. The sobbing nature of your baby can actually be frustrating especially when you are busy. Stranger anxiety in babies is at it’s peak when he/she is 12 to 15 months old and vanishes gradually after that period. If you are still worried about such behavior of your little heart, you can use following methods to treat their distress :-

Make your child familiar with the babysitter

If you have appointed a new carer or babysitter for home, it will not be recommended to leave your baby right away. Instead, choose a slower approach to make the baby familiar with the babysitter. Don’t go away right after the babysitter arrives. Call the carer at least an hour earlier. Greet the person so that your baby can think he is someone to trust. Play good activities with the carer with your baby around so that he can feel comfortable. Give the caretaker time to interact with baby while you are there. Slowly leave them alone. And, go out simply with a goodbye kiss, nothing more. Make sure that your baby is not hungry.

Let others know about this anxiety

One thing that may happen that when your friend or relative takes the baby in their lap and the baby starts showing the symptoms of stranger anxiety by crying on in other way, they feel offended or insulted. That’s a usual reaction. One thing you can do right then is to make them understand what stranger anxiety is. Educated them stranger anxiety is a common thing and is a part of a child’s development process. Let them know that this condition fades away after a certain age. Also, tell them the ways such that they can make your child feel comforted.

Let your baby see more faces from an early age

One thing that you can do to make your child feel more comfortable while interacting with unfamiliar faces is to expose them to new people from an early age. Keep in mind that infants may be too early to be exposed to new people, so consult your doctor first. Let them see unknown faces while you are also present. You can find different opportunities to let your baby see more humans. Take them to the park while strolling. Let them observe the human activities going around. Interact with the friends, smile and make your baby get comfortable.

Stay calm and positive

Symptoms of stranger anxiety in a baby are enough to make parents feel anxious also. Their fearful behaviour will make you get stressed and you will be worried and overwhelmed. But, you should stay calm. Instead of yelling, try to please your calm verbally and physically. Say happy songs to them. Play daily games with them with the company of that other person. And, don’t consider this stage a matter of concern. Accept it as a part of child’s development. Remain calm yourself, take a deep breath and don’t get stressed.

These are the few tricks that you can follow to improve your child’s ability to meet strangers. Along these methods, keep these little things in mind:-

  • Introduce your child with strangers at home first.
  • Take your baby’s toy or blanket while meeting with new people.
  • Hold your child’s hand while he is meeting new person.
  • Don’t push your baby to meet new people if he/she is not ready.
  • Let your child do some things for himself, like playing with toys.

Stranger anxiety is an overrated threat that should be treated as a part of child’s growth only. It can looks like a serious thing when a baby don’t feel like good while getting to the arms of someone new. This annoying thing goes away with time in most cases. However, if this continues beyond a certain age, it can become a disorder. One thing parents should remember that they should know about their toddler’s anxiety. And, you can also follow the above tips to treat stranger anxiety.

Separation Anxiety in Adults – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Separation Anxiety in Adults – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Separation anxiety in adults creates an intense fear for separation
Separation anxiety in adults creates an intense fear for separation

Separation anxiety is a common issue often experienced during the early childhood. A thought of getting away from the parents or caretakers creates an extreme fear in a child but this fear tears out lastly by age of 3. However, in some cases this anxiety continues and can even reach adulthood in rare cases. Separation anxiety in adults results into an intense fear into the mind of the person who is going to experience a separation from any important person in his life. This separation can be from parents, caretakers or even a pet. The separation can make negative consequences in leading a fair work and personal life. This article will let you know about separation anxiety, it’s causes and signs. Some ways to treat it are also discussed. Keep reading to clear all your doubts :-

What is separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is an extreme fear for separation that in rare cases continue till adulthood
Separation anxiety is an extreme fear for separation that in rare cases continue till adulthood

Separation anxiety refers to the extreme feelings of fear and stress in the mind of a person that is triggered when that person is going to experience a separation. While it’s not a separate disorder, the anxiety is linked with agoraphobia and generalized anxiety disorder. Little kids who are less than 3 years old who have always lived in their parent’s company, feel very worrying while getting out without them like when going to school. This is common. But as a child grows, he learns to enjoy. However, this anxiety continues in some children and leads into child separation anxiety disorder. Children with separation anxiety can think about nothing but their stress of separation. This condition can last longer and stay until adulthood leading to separation anxiety disorder in adults.

What causes separation anxiety in adults?

Separation anxiety in adults is linked with other underlying mental conditions
Separation anxiety in adults is linked with other underlying mental conditions

Separation anxiety in adults makes them extremely fearful about losing contact with their partner, friends, parents and family members. While main reason behind this condition is not clear, it is linked with other underlying mental conditions that a person is suffering from. Usually, a person with generalised anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder and panic disorder can experience symptoms of separation disorder. It is even observed that the daily life stress creates this fear in the mind of an adult. Genetics can also be the reason this anxiety.

Adults normally feel separation from their partner. Separation anxiety in adults is triggered from partner. Excess of emotional stress due to codependency, cultural differences and life stress induce separation anxiety in a relationship.

Symptoms of separation anxiety in adults

Separation anxiety in adults cause an intensive amount of fear for separation even leading to panic attacks
Separation anxiety in adults cause an intensive amount of fear for separation even leading to panic attacks

Apart from the feeling of getting away from the loved ones, which is quite common to have, separation anxiety in adults can cause an intensive amount of fear when they get out of reach of their loved ones. Experiencing such separation can boost their anxiety to an other level and it can even lead to panic attacks. The 3 common signs of separation anxiety found in adults are :-

  • Feeling extremely hesitant and even refusing to leave the nearness of their closed ones.
  • Anticipating the loss of their loved ones causing them feel distressed even with the thought of a separation from them.
  • Having a persistent fear running in their mind that the other person will be harmed if they are leaved alone.

Such negative feelings can exacerbate the other side effects of stress. The fear of being alone heightens up in such person. Separation anxiety can also result into a toxic possessiveness in a relationship. Parents due to such condition will always consider harsh parenting techniques with a thought of protecting their children. A partner will be over protective to save the relation. He/she will always want to know where his/her partner is. Since, this problem is related with mental issues like agoraphobia and generalized anxiety disorder, there symptoms can prevail to make the condition worse. Physical problems are also caused due to it’s symptoms. It normally include stomachache, nausea and headache.

Since panic attack is also associated with separation anxiety, constant feelings about getting away can reach peak in a sudden. Separation anxiety in adults make them to refuse getting away from home or not staying at home alone without a loved one. Repeated nightmares about separation and not falling asleep without a loved one are also noticed in such people. Due to the effect of other problems, constant negative thoughts that something bad will happen strikes the mind.

Risk factors

Separation anxiety is more probable in adults with OCD
Separation anxiety is more probable in adults with OCD

Results have shown that people are more likely to have separation anxiety in adulthood if they suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Separation anxiety is an adult often brings other medical conditions like panic disorder and social anxiety. Females are more likely to have separation anxiety. Apart from this, past traumatic event like facing the illness and death of a loved one, parents getting separated or getting abused can contribute to this condition. A sudden life change like a daughter going to college and leaving home can make a person develop it’s symptoms. Environmental issues like facing a disaster causing separation from loved ones can cause this disorder.

How to treat separation anxiety in adults?

Separation anxiety in adults must be treated as soon as it is diagnosed
Separation anxiety in adults must be treated as soon as it is diagnosed

Separation anxiety is a major mental problem that, if not diagnosed, can become a big issue and hinder an adult in his personal and professional life. While the earlier belief that said that the condition of separation anxiety can last only till a person reach age of 18, it was not considered a noticeable issue.

A diagnosis of this problem is important. For this purpose, the doctor will organize a detailed examination that is based on the criteria specified in DSM-V. It states the different signs of separation anxiety. One is being intensively fearful and anxious about getting separated from the person that is important to you, such fear should be present in the person for more than six months, the symptoms should be worse enough to interfere with your daily functioning and these symptoms are best fitted in this category, not for any other disorder. The doctor will ask a number of questions to know about the truth of the condition. Friends and family members are also contacted to know about the severity of this condition in a person’s life.

As soon as the condition is diagnosed, it is advised to take a treatment without wasting any time. As separation anxiety in adults is also a mental disorder, all the treatment methods used for curing anxiety disorders work well in treating separation anxiety. You just need to test different treatments and stick to what fits you best. Some common methods are :-

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) aims at challenging and changing cognitive behavioral patterns and distortions. The therapy works great in solving this problem by developing coping strategies. With the help of this therapy, you can identify your behaviors and thoughts that triggers anxiety. You will also learn about new plans to lead a more comfortable life. Like, if you keep checking your partner, you will be able to know about good relationship goals and activities.

Seek help of support groups

Support groups have a wonderful job in letting a person lead a better life by reducing the stress within. Support groups can help the persons with anxiety and depression. As such, you can take help of a support group to treat your separation anxiety. Such support groups can provide great learning opportunities to help you avoid stress.

Apart from the two above, any kind of psychotherapy works great in treating separation anxiety in adults. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and family therapy are also two worthy treatments. You can also take anti anxiety medications that may not be the long term solution but can help through acute symptoms of separation anxiety. You should just stick with the best treatment plan to avoid worsening of symptoms. And, as soon as you notice the symptoms of this condition, seek a professional help to prevent the issue getting significant.

Separation anxiety is a common issue in babies before they get ready to experience the world. However, separation anxiety lasts only for a few months and fades away completely by the age of 3. However, in rare adults this condition can still prevail. Having the ability to make a person keep worrying about any moment of separation from their closed ones, many physical problems are also accompanied with it. It can cause a serious implication on their work life. You should seek a professional advice as soon as you come to know about such condition. Just a consistent treatment plan and you will be able to enjoy life to its fullest.

Driving anxiety – symptoms and how to overcome it

Driving anxiety – symptoms and how to overcome it

Feeling nervous while driving can also be a sign of anxiety
Feeling nervous while driving can also be a sign of anxiety

Ever experienced a sudden change in your expression when the key is handed over to you? Feeling fearful when driving or when get chance to drive can be an anxiety disorder. People with driving anxiety gets very stressful just with the thought that they have to drive and they avoid situations to get behind the wheels. And, if they take the keys, people’s lives can be affected. If you lose control of your vehicle while driving, it can cause serious road accidents. And, if you avoid driving, it can make you isolated and homesick. People feel distressed in different driving situations. Whle some people while sitting on the passenger sit, some feel anxious while driving through a tunnel or a bridge or while driving during night. While this fear may vary from slight discomfort to intense apprehension, it should be treated in time. This fear can be normal. But, with common techniques it can be treated. Read along this article to know about driving anxiety, it’s symptoms and also different ways to overcome it.

What is driving anxiety?

Driving is a common thing that can trigger anxiety suddenly
Driving is a common thing that can trigger anxiety suddenly

Driving is one of the common things that can trigger anxiety all of a sudden. Driving anxiety can be classified as a type of phobia. People who have a fear of open spaces, crowds and roads can feel overwhelming to get behind the wheels. In phobia, a person tries to avoid a situation at any cost. A man with driving anxiety will try not to drive at any way or will try to drive only through the side roads. You will try to not take your vehicle to the main highway and even take longer routes to stop getting to highways just because of that fear. This nervousness can feel like controlling your life if your condition is severe. Your hands feel shaking and your back gets stiffed while you control the steering.

The fear that something negative will happen makes you nervous. This nervousness is caused due to many reasons. One significant reason is the fear of accidents. Maybe you have witnessed a major road accident or you may have lost a closed one due to a road accident. Being involved in a road accident also makes a person nervous. Even watching an accident of television can lead to nervousness. You may not trust your driving skills and find it difficult to navigate through heavy traffic. Having a family history of anxiety disorders might also make you worrying while driving.

Along with these reasons, Binocular Vision Dysfunction is a physical weakness in eyes causing driving anxiety. Our eyes when in good condition work in good sync and process the image seen by both to produce a final clear scene. But, people with a condition of BVD have weak eyes are that not is a condition to work as a team for producing one clear image. When the weakness gets more, it can lead to double vision. This make it difficult for people to see road, traffic signs and the other vehicles clearly. And, even a slight symptoms of BVD can prove quite noticeable while driving.

Symptoms of driving anxiety

Driving anxiety is a type of phobia making you discomfort even with the thought of driving
Driving anxiety is a type of phobia making you discomfort even with the thought of driving

Driving anxiety is a type of phobia where one has a certain fear and anxiety about any situation or thing and can influence their mental and physical health. This anxiety has short term as well as various long term effects. These are the common symptoms found in people who are experiencing driving anxiety :-

  • Feeling quite stressful even with prospect of driving and you feel difficult to drive.
  • You experience a physical discomfort like muscle tension that reduces your performance behind the wheels.
  • Experiencing a panic related effect that causes a sudden increase in your anxiety levels which is very persistent and excessive.
  • Feeling a strong desire to avoid getting behind the wheels or taking the keys just because of the fear lurking in your mind.
  • Disorientation
  • Feeling nervous in crowded places
  • Palms getting sweaty
  • Rapid breathing and shortness of breath
  • Irregular heartbeats
  • Restlessness and fatigue
  • Motion sickness
  • Finding it difficult to process depth perception, equilibrium and balance needed to see clearly.

Apart from just short term effects, these symptoms may affect your ability to drive in long run making you experience muscle tension, rapid heartbeats, tiredness and other symptoms cumulatively.

How to overcome driving anxiety?

Driving anxiety can be treated by following these methods
Driving anxiety can be treated by following these methods

The symptoms of driving anxiety can affect a person’s quality of life apart from just making it difficult to drive. This anxiety can be a big hindrance in making your life interesting. But, the good news is that it can be treated by following some methods. Whether you feel nervous while driving due to a past experience, or it is due to the symptoms of Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD), these are some of the best possible ways that can be implemented to make driving a lot easier and comfortable :-

Be present while driving

One simple rule that applies to life as well as driving, be present at the moment. People with driving anxiety often thinks about the whole journey and imagine the most astonishing part of that ride whether it’s the bridge or a tunnel. But, what you need to know is to just focus on the road you’re driving on. Concentrate only on the road you’re driving through without worrying about the upcoming twists. While crossing tunnel, don’t think you have to cross the whole tunnel, just focus on the road ahead your car, keep driving and you will pass it. This takes time and practice but eventually you’ll become brave.

Practice relaxation

Relaxation always work for reducing the amount of stress and fear in your mind. It calms your mind down and eliminates any tension therein. If you are suffering from driving anxiety, you can also look after dome self care practices. There are many relaxation practices that can minimize stress. You can practice meditation, focusing on your breath and relax your mind, use your imagination to create calm and peaceful scenery improving relaxation or also try an autogenic training.

Consult a therapist

Taking help of a mental health specialist never gets wasted. As driving anxiety is one of severe mental conditions that affects your brain abilities to perform an action it is allays advisable to talk to a psychologist or psychotherapist. The therapist can effectively analyze the reason of your nervousness and can find all the symptoms of the anxiety inherent in you. The therapist will talk to you and study your behavior to give customized treatment plan for you. This plan can include timely medication, psychotherapy and support groups.

Get a virtual reality exposure therapy

One particular therapy that is proven to be very working in reducing stress about driving is the exposure therapy. Since a person with anxiety of driving feels stressed by even sitting on the driver or passenger seat, this therapy works to make the person confront his fear about driving. In a controlled environment, a virtual reality exposure therapy reduces anxiety levels in the mind of the driver. And, your body will be able to feel comfortable with the physic and mental sensations felt during such anxiety.

Attend a CBT session

A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a successful way to build ways to cope with your fear and nervousness. With the help of a therapist, you come to know about your negative thinking and how this thought is creating fear and affecting your ability to drive. You will feel more safe and comfortable while driving by eliminating such negative thinking, fear and anxiety. A CBT session also includes finding healthy behavioural patterns like focusing on your breath and challenging your thoughts.

Driving is one of those skills that make life a lot more convenient. And, if there’s something that is bothering with this skill of yours and making you get discomfort while driving, it shouldn’t be left alone. A slight fear can become a serious anxiety disorder and it can affect your quality of life apart from just making it challenging for you to drive. No one wants to feel scatter and isolated and if an anxiety is making you nervous, it should be noticed and dealt accordingly. A road accident, a bad driving experience, family traits and BVD are some of the causes that make a person gets nervous while driving. However, as in the case of any anxiety disorder, the fear about anxiety can also be overcome. You can follow the above tips and you will be feel lot safer to hit the road again.

14 best low stress jobs for people with Anxiety

14 best low stress jobs for people with Anxiety

World is full of options, also for those suffering from anxiety
World is full of options, also for those suffering from anxiety

Nearly 18 percent of American population gets annually disrupted by anxiety, as per reports of Anxiety and Depression Association of America. And, landing on a perfect job for people with anxiety can be a little difficult. If those high paced sales and marketing, advertising, fashion and financing jobs don’t interest you just because you are not comfortable with strategizing, socializing and deal making, then you might get more worried about your career. This is a major problem for people facing anxiety issues. People facing anxiety disorder often have a stigma that prompts them to keep their issues a secret. This makes them interact much less with other people.

Finding a comfortable job where you don’t have to face much social interaction can be a bit confusing and is anxious in itself. But, you don’t need to worry as we are showing you a list of best low stress jobs. These jobs will offer you flexibility both in terms of workplace and deadlines and some jobs even don’t demand a college degree. If you are the one who is looking for a stress free job simply to make your living and where you don’t have to deal much with people, here are the 14 best jobs that you can select from :-

Writer

A freelance writing job is good for people with ancianxiety
A freelance writing job is good for people with anxiety

One liberal job for people suffering from Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), a writing job doesn’t require any social interaction. If you have a creative mind, you can definitely opt for freelance writing. The job is perfect for people with anxiety because they don’t have to remain bound to any rigid deadline and can work anywhere and anytime at a comfortable pace. If you want to make a career in writing, you can also train yourself with some workshops. A formal education like a bachelor’s degree in English or journalism can help additionally but is not necessity. There are different options ranging from starter to professional found in writing.

Landscaper

With limited social interaction, a landscaper role is great for people with anxiety
With limited social interaction, a landscaper role is great for introverts with anxiety

This is a great job for people who love to spend time in nature. As a gardener or landscaper, you will have to cultivate, create and maintain a park, garden or any other natural setting. This job is good for people with anxiety and introverts as there’s not a need to interact with others socially and you get benefits of fresh air. Even a simple job of growing plants and selling them can be okay. All you need is a little creativity, thoughtfulness and maintaining the plants to keep them flourished.

Librarian

With quietness, the job of a librarian is perfect for people with anxiety
With quietness, the job of a librarian is perfect for people with anxiety

Nothing can beat the quietness of a library. As loud talking is strongly restricted in liberty, you’ll feel relieved to work here. As a librarian, you will help people handling any check in and out of books, catheorizing them and managing returns. You can also be expected to host some occasional events. This job is perfect for people with anxiety as it doesn’t demand any major social interaction. You can also keep reading books and continue on learning new things. The smoothness of library will make you feel better. But you need a college degree for starting career as a librarian.

English teacher

If looking for a low stress job, you can become an English teacher
If looking for a low stress job, you can become an English teacher

Although this job might not be comfortable for some introverts, an English teaching job can be good for those people with anxiety who love spending time with kids. And if you’re worrying about classroom management, then don’t worry. You can give online English classes from the comfort of your home. Just due to digital revolution, there are numerous online platforms where you can provide teaching services. You will face a little social interaction to start your day and will spend time with kids in a fun way.

Accountant

For those who love numbers, accountant job is a perfect low stress job
For those who love numbers, accountant job is a perfect low stress job

A person as an accountant will be working with numbers. The person will be expected to collect financial data using your skills and knowledge, analyse and interpret useful financial results and check on the accuracy of important financial documents. You will also guide a business in it’s financial strategies. Because of limited public interaction, this job is good for people with anxiety. Especially for people who loves numbers and can notice minor details, the job of accountant is perfect. However, a formal degree is necessary to be qualified to work as an accountant.

Pet caretaker

Pet caretaker is a good job for introverts with anxiety
Pet caretaker is a good job for introverts with anxiety

Spending time with little animals can be an effective way to reduce anxiety symptoms. And if you find this working for you, a pet caretaker job works great. As a pet caretaker, you will be grooming, training and looking after them. Pet caretaker job is perfect for introverts with anxiety as not just it demands a limited public interaction, it also helps in reducing stress by spending time with animals. There isn’t any need of any formal education to work as a pet care professional.

Software programmer

For the computer enthusiasts, software programming is a worthy low stress job
For the computer enthusiasts, software programming is a worthy low stress job

One major job that is in high demand in today’s technological environment, the role of a software programmer is highly recommended to make career in, particularly if you find yourself excited by innovative techno world. This enthusiastic job is great for people with anxiety as they have a work in complete solitude. This job requires some creativity, technical knowledge and the ability to concentrate completely to work. Although a formal degree is not a necessity and even software programmers are mostly self taught, if you are looking for higher paying jobs to make a comfortable living, it will really help.

Janitor

Being janitor can be a good job for people with anxiety
Being janitor can be a good job for people with anxiety

The job of a janitor is good for people with anxiety as this job demands no vague results and social comfort. As a janitor, you will be dealing with some big messes and all you have to do is to make a workplace clean, disinfected and clear. The results demanded and quite clear here. You won’t get the time to worry about your anxious thoughts while doing this job. Many people even love cleaning. All you have to do is to move, sweep and mop. Just plug on the music or anything and you will be feeling better working. There’s also not any need of education.

Data entry clerk

Data entry is a popular job among people with anxiety
Data entry is a popular low stress job among people with anxiety

Thought as a very tedious and boring job, the data entry work is very soothing for people with anxiety. The job provides the comfort of working from home and with no public interference, you have the clear sight of what you’re expected to do. The job revolves around typing and transcribing data that can be written or audio, so a decent typing speed and computer skills should be there in you. Beware of the fraud postings on the internet as this job is highly seeked by people. A higher study degree can be an added bonus.

Graphic designer

If you have that creativity, graphic designing is the perfect low stress job
If you have that creativity, graphic designing is the perfect low stress job

One great option that is getting more and more popular among job seekers, a graphic designing job is highly recommended for people with anxiety as there’s not any social exposure and with increasing digital demand, there’s chances of getting more opportunities. As a graphic designer, you will be working on softwares to create different marketing materials like logos, webpages, social media posts and promotions. This role demands a good creativity and computer skills. A formal education is not demanded but you should have the knowledge to use illustration and photo editing softwares.

Archivist

If you have an interest in history, the perfect low stress job is that of an archivist
If you have an interest in history, the perfect low stress job is that of an archivist

This job is suitable for people with an anxiety who have a huge interest in history and research. This job doesn’t require social interaction and you will be working around old historic records. As an archivist, you will be working to study and preverve historic documents, written manuscripts, photos, figures and maps. This job demands a strong concentration power. Being the job of a critical nature, there’s a need to have a Master’s degree to work as an archivist.

Photographer

Photographing is an ideal job for people with anxiety
Photographing is an ideal job for people with anxiety

Photographing is a particular work that have a healing effect on your mind. Photography is a good choice as a low stress job as along with no social interaction, the job be helpful in reducing anxiety levels. When you observe a scenery you want to photograph, you are avoiding any over thinking and over analysis that reduce stress. There are many options to choose ranging from portrait photography, landscape photography, street photography to photojournalism. Except photojournalism, there’s no need of formal education. All you need is a creative eye and a knowledge about the camera you use.

Fitness trainer

Demanding a good fitness and interpersonal communication, fitness trainer job is good for people with anxiety
Demanding a good fitness and some interpersonal communication, fitness trainer job is good for people with anxiety

If you have a good physique and are comfortable with interpersonal conversation, you can become a fitness trainer. This role doesn’t require any public interaction, all you need is to engage with your client and give them necessary tips regarding building a fit body to make them meet their fitness goals. Another reason that the job is great for people with anxiety is that they have to maintain a healthy lifestyle to be a fitness trainer. And when you follow good diet and healthy lifestyle to be physically fit your anxiety levels also reduce drastically.

Park ranger

Park ranger is a good low stress role for nature lovers
Park ranger is a good low stress role for nature lovers

The job of park ranger revolves around maintaining a natural environment to make it ready for the visitors. This low stress job is for those people who are comfortable with a little one on one conversation as you will be guiding and giving information to visitors. However, your most work revolves around protecting nature by patrolling park and campground, regulating safety instructions and maintaining trails. If you love to spend time in outdoor nature, this job can be a great choice.

These are the 11 best low stress jobs that are suitable for introvert people suffering from anxiety. These jobs give you the freedom to choose your own workplace. As such, you don’t need to settle for a job where you’re not comfortable working in. You should also consult your therapist to reduce your anxiety symptoms along with looking for more practical option for you. Be sure to check on your anxiety as with a stress free mind, you will have more options and opportunities to make a life of your dream.

7 things to know when dating someone with anxiety

7 things to know when dating someone with anxiety

When dating someone with anxiety, you should know some things
When dating someone with anxiety, you should know some things

You cannot choose whom you fall in love with. If the person you’re liking is struggling with the anxiety problems, it can become a big issue in your relationship sometimes. Dating someone with anxiety symptoms can be a stressful thing. You may not be able to enjoy activities that you’d like to explore with your partner.

But, that’s not truly the whole thing. You have the right to enjoy with your partner whatever you both like and anxiety shouldn’t come in between. Anxiety can sometimes become a third person in your relationship that you won’t be willing to accept. Your partner having anxiety symptoms doesn’t mean that you have to sabotage the relationship or avoid the partner. Dating someone with anxiety also means that you have an extra opportunity of supporting your partner.

In this article, we discusses the things that you should know while dating someone with anxiety. If you are also worried about the impact of the anxiety in your relationship and how you can support the mental fitness of you both to take your partner out of this condition, keep reading this article below.

Dating someone with anxiety? Is it hard?

Is it hard to date someone with anxiety? The question is usual
Is it to hard to date someone with anxiety? The question is usual

The question must be striking in your mind. Seeing someone suffering the symptoms of anxiety might not be your plan. Watching a person having anxiety signs can make you upset and you may also get anxious with that. Questions about how the life of your partner will affect you, will you be able to cooperate with the challenging lifestyle of your partner and will that relationship goes in the future can disturb you in the present. Even people who experience anxiety problems also doubt their relationship success. In fact, these doubts and questions are more frequent in the one having anxiety.

These questions are understandable and usual to come over. The honest answer is that yes, dating someone with anxiety is harder than normal. The thing that becomes important here is that you should be more critical about self care activities and set aside some time for the relaxation of your mind in any way.

If you are someone who are looking forward to start dating a person suffering with anxiety symptoms, there are a few things that you should have a knowledge about. You may feel like helping when you’re around a person with anxiety, especially if that person is the one you want to date. You will be looking for ways to make them feel better and not criticize their emotions. Here are the 7 things that you should be aware of while dating someone with anxiety :-

Learn about what anxiety is

Research about what anxiety is to empathize deeply with your partner
Research about what anxiety is to empathize deeply with your partner

To be able to accept your partner and to get oriented with what your partner is dealing with, it is first recommended that you should do a basic research about anxiety. Anxiety is not a normal stage that people experience at some point in their life but a harsh beast that can make their life miserable.

There are different types of anxiety disorders induced by different triggers. Anxiety in a person makes him/her avoid certain things. Learn about it from the articles available on the internet and talk with your partner’s friends and relatives. After learning more about anxiety and realizing that it’s more than just a phase, you’ll be able to empathize deeper with your partner.

Learn to talk about anxiety openly with your partner

Try to talk about anxiety openly and honestly with your partner
Try to talk about anxiety openly and honestly with your partner

The questions related to the long term compatibility of your partner and how their condition will affect your social life will make you think anxiety as a taboo subject. That’s why you try to avoid any conversation related to anxiety.

The need here is to be more open about anxiety and talking about it in an open and honest manner. You can simply start such conversation with your partner with some casual chitchat about how they’re feeling. And, if you’re partner is comfortable, you can talk directly about it. The thing that matters is that you should not judge what your partner is feeling. Don’t try to get defensive and just listen their words as a sign to show that you respect their words. Motivate them to speak and don’t take things personally.

Know what triggers their anxiety

Know what triggers anxiety in the person you're dating
Know what triggers anxiety in the person you’re dating

People who deal with the symptoms of anxiety disorder often have certain triggers. These triggers can be anything from people, thing, situation or place. When they come across these triggers, the anxiety levels hike up and their condition gets worse.

You, as a partner has to be careful about such anxiety stimulating triggers. Yeah, it’s not your duty to keep protecting them against these triggers, you should be aware about how they react to these triggers. You can help your partner to cope up with the effect of such anxiety booster and you’ll be able to know about how your partner reacts to different situations.

Motivate your partner to seek assistance

Motivate your partner to seek assistance if they're facing anxiety issues
Motivate your partner to seek assistance if they’re facing anxiety issues

Anxiety can also result to less social interactions. The partner with a anxiety will try to avoid any social interaction. They think that mental illness issues are not readily accepted openly in a normal environment. This mere thought makes your partner resist any medical help.

When dating someone with anxiety, while keeping this thing in mind, help your partner seek help. Let your partner know that they can get better. Meditation and therapy are the best solutions for anxiety. Tell your partner that how their life will get back to normal if they seek a professional help. Be kind with your partner while encouraging them.

Go for couple counseling

Motivate your anxious partner to attend a therapy session
Motivate your anxious partner to attend a therapy session

As you encourage your partner to seek for help, you may motivate him/her to attend a therapy session. As therapy is still the best option for fighting against anxiety, you should convince your anxious partner to go for a counselling session with you.

When you both two are not able to solve the problem, seeking the assistance of a third person always helps. A couple therapy session with a psychologist can help you both get things clear. As, sometimes, the reason for anxiety is in the relationship itself, the counsellor will guide you both. He will make you both comfortable with each other and you will be able to learn better communication rules to follow while talking with your anxious partner.

Consider your partner and their anxiety separate

Consider your partner and their anxiety separate
Consider your partner and their anxiety separate

One thing you should know when dating someone with anxiety is that you should treat your partner and their anxiety separately. Yeah, there is a situation when the person feel overwhelmed and doesn’t react the way you thought, but accept it as a part of their anxiety and don’t consider it to be their real nature.

Remember that he/she is still the same person who makes you laugh out loud in different ways, breaks the ice when you both get upset with each other and stands with you when you need him/her. It’s just their anxiety that makes them react that way. Be calm and compassionate with your partner. Your partner will also realize that he/she is more than just anxiety when you consider their anxiety separate with them.

Be clear about the boundaries

Be clear about the boundaries when dating someone with anxiety
Be clear about the boundaries when dating someone with anxiety

One definite thing you should definitely bee clear about is that being patient and accepting their behavior is different letting them do whatever the hell they’re doing. Dating someone with anxiety may make you face some tough situation as a partner but you both should be clear about the boundaries.

There are some extreme situations during anxiety disorders making a person suffer panic attacks and behave bad. But, its not their right to be cruel and abusive with you. You can avoid any resentment in future by setting the limits in advance. If your partner shows such extreme behaviour during an anxiety hike or panic attack, let them know that it’s not acceptable. Tell them that you expect them to improve.

Dating someone with anxiety is hard sometimes. When you come to know about your partner’s condition with a straight disclosure from him/her, it can bring a lot of doubts and questions relating to the partner and the relationship. But, show some trust to your partner and don’t judge. Having anxiety doesn’t mean that the relationship cannot be enjoyed. Just keep in mind the tips described above and you’ll be able to enjoy a great dating life.

How to Deal With Hangover Anxiety- Its Symptoms and Cure

How to Deal With Hangover Anxiety- Its Symptoms and Cure

Control yourself before you have a few too many for the night. Otherwise, the next day you may find yourself with hangover anxiety.

You are out with your friends enjoying a few drinks at a party or during a night out. At the moment, without even realizing it, you tend to lean on the bottle a little too much. That’s when the vicious cycle of hangover anxiety begins. 

Besides, the after-effects of your hangover leading to anxiety come into effect the next day. The morning after your night of heavy drinking, you tend to get physical, mental as well as emotional side effects. Those side effects are not at all pleasant, and you need some cure to relieve you from these unwanted symptoms of a hangover. 

People enjoy in the weekend end up with hangover anxiety.
People enjoy in the weekend and end up with hangover anxiety.

What is Hangxiety?

In simple terms, Hangxiety is a mix of two words: hangover and anxiety. It is a type of anxiety that occurs due to excessive drinking of alcohol. After you consume a lot of alcohol, your body and brain need to rebalance. In the meantime, you may experience a mini withdrawal from alcohol. To add to that, it affects your nervous system and also disturbs your mood leading to hangover anxiety. 

Can Hangovers Cause Anxiety?

Yes, a hangover can be a cause of your anxiety. As we discussed earlier, when you consume a lot of alcohol, the body’s response is to rebalance it to its neutral state. The brain helps to release certain chemicals, which becomes the main factor leading to hangover anxiety.

A man struggling from hangover anxiety.
A man struggling from hangover anxiety.

Alcohol is addictive which affects our body in various ways. To add to that, it affects our neurotransmitters such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. Initially, the chemical change in the brain can bring about a rush of bliss and ecstasy. After a while, when the pleasurable chemicals start to fade away, then you start to recollect your problems and worries. Thus, leading to hangover anxiety in the body.

What Causes Hangover Anxiety?

Alcohol stimulates the production of an inhibitory neurotransmitter known as GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid). It slows down the functions of the brain and also calms you down. That’s why you tend to feel a bit relaxed after a few drinks. The real issue starts when you drink a little more after that, that’s when your brain blocks a neurotransmitter called Glutamate. To add to that, Glutamate has a link to anxiety, as shown in many studies. When Glutamate is blocked, you feel relaxed, and all your stress and anxiety fade away.

Chemical rebalance causing hangover anxiety in the girl.
Chemical rebalance causing hangover anxiety in the girl.

The brain, after a while, rebalances the chemicals by producing higher levels of Glutamate and blocking GABA. Thus, when you regain control of yourself, you are more anxious than ever. The anxiety levels in an individual shoot up as soon as the feelings start to resurface. You start to recall embarrassing moments from the night before, and it makes the matter worse. On top of that, one can feel overwhelming levels of depressive and negative thoughts adding to the hangover anxiety levels in the body.

Why Do I Get Panic Attacks After Drinking?

Alcohol disturbs and alters serotonin levels and neurotransmitters like GABA in the brain. As a result, you can get panic attacks and higher levels of anxiety. To add to that, a panic attack due to alcohol results from excessive anxiety where you feel an upsurge of emotion and amplified stress. On top of that, when stress is mixed with a host of negative thoughts, you can get panic attacks after drinking and hangover anxiety.

What Are Hangover Anxiety Symptoms?

After a night of heavy drinking, you must have observed some usual physical symptoms of a hangover. Some are throbbing headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, aversion to bright lights. The bright lights compel you to wear shades at home too. Add to that the usual remark after a hangover, “ I am never drinking again.”

A man struggling with hangover anxiety in the morning.
A man struggling with hangover anxiety in the morning.

Here Are Some Symptoms

Apart from the physical symptoms of hangovers, there are psychological symptoms too. These add to the feeling of anxiety and make a case for hangover anxiety in your body. To sum up, there is a compiled list of related symptoms leading to anxiety after a hangover.

  • Mood Swings: Serotonin level in the body is usually higher when you are drunk. Besides, it is a vital molecule that makes you feel amazing when in higher quantity in the body. However, you start to feel nervous and anxious when it reduces with time.
  • Loss of Focus: The brain becomes foggy due to excessive drinking. And due to anxiety, you are not able to focus on any task. So, next time you can’t focus after a night of drinking, it might be due to hangover anxiety.
  • Racing Heart: Your heartbeat becomes faster after consuming excess alcohol. Hangxiety adds to this and can give you false alarm of a mini heart attack. Thus, adding to the further depression and making you nervous.
  • Feeling Tired And Fatigued: Hangover anxiety can make you feel tired from any work. That’s why the term “Monday Blues” has been even more popular because you don’t feel like working after having a hangover. Besides, the anxiety compels you to stay in bed.
  • Feeling On Edge: Have you felt unknown stress and worry troubling you for the entire day after a weekend. The reason could be hangover anxiety. Because the more you are anxious, the more stress you carry with you.

How To Cure Hangover Anxiety?

The first step is to address the physical symptoms of a hangover. By doing that, it can make you feel better and reduce a bit of anxiety. The standard hangover protocol, such as drinking lots of water, taking a good nap, eating light meals, and taking care of your medication, can bring a lot of relief. Besides, there are some methods you can follow to reduce hangover anxiety further.

A girl staying hydrated to reduce hangover anxiety.
A girl staying hydrated to reduce hangover anxiety.

Here Are Some Ways To Manage Hangover Anxiety

  • Relax with meditation, yoga, and practicing deep breathing techniques. It will surely calm you down.
  • You can plug in some calm and relaxing music giving you space to relax. Also, add in some activity that you like, maybe some painting, writing, or going for a walk if you feel like it.
  • Do not indulge in the memory of last night. If some strange thoughts cut across, then just let it go. The more you can stay away from negative thoughts, the better it is for you.
  • Monitor your sleeping time. You need at least six to eight hours of sleep to alleviate your anxiety.
  • Eat smart and light. To add to that, try to have a balanced diet that is nutritious for your body.
  • Apart from restricting alcohol, it is important to limit or stop caffeine intake after a hangover. Caffeine can further dehydrate the body, adding to anxiety levels.
  • Last but not least, the proven way to reduce anxiety is to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Drink lots of water. You can add some electrolytes in your fluids to further help in your hangover anxiety.

How Long Does Hangover Anxiety Last?

How long does post alcohol anxiety last? The answer to this question is that it varies from person to person. Also, how severe the hangover is and the length play a big factor in deciding how long the anxiety will last. But, usually, the hangover anxiety doesn’t last too long. 

A girl staying in her bed because of hangover anxiety.
A girl staying in her bed because of hangover anxiety.

According to some studies, your anxiety signs due to a hangover can last up to 14 hours. The time is until your body’s chemical returns to normal. However, the ability to manage the symptoms of a hangover can determine the length of your anxiety. Mental strength can also play a role in determining how long your anxiety persists.

Conclusion

Hangover anxiety can surely ruin your day and keep you from being your best for the day. If it happens occasionally, then it is not a matter of huge concern. But, if you find yourself struggling every weekday, then it is time to evaluate your drinking levels.

A girl coping with hangover anxiety.
A girl coping with hangover anxiety.

Besides, if you can exercise self-control over your drinking pattern, well and good. Otherwise, you may seek some help from professionals. You may work on managing anxiety by following simple tips.

Eating before you drink alcohol to drinking water following every drink can help you to escape hangovers. So, there are ways to manage it, but if you can drink within the limit and keep a check on it, you can prevent hangover anxiety from happening in the first place.

Is anxiety a disability?

Is anxiety a disability?

Anxiety, a serious mental condition can prove to be a disability to work
Anxiety, a serious mental condition prove to be a disability to work

Anxiety is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or unease that can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Given its debilitating effects, there has been much debate as to whether anxiety is a disability. In this blog post, we will examine the question of whether anxiety can be considered a disability, exploring the different perspectives on this issue and the legal framework that applies to it.

What is anxiety disorder

Anxiety disorder leads to an extreme fear and uneasiness in your brain
Anxiety disorder leads to an extreme fear and uneasiness in your brain

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It is often described as a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can range from mild to severe. Anxiety can be triggered by a specific event or situation, such as an exam or a job interview, or it can be a more general feeling of nervousness that persists over time.

Symptoms of Anxiety

The severity and frequency of anxiety symptoms can vary from person to person. For some individuals, anxiety can be a temporary condition that is easily managed with self-care or medication. For others, it can be a chronic and debilitating condition that requires ongoing treatment and suppor. Anxiety can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Sweating
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Insomnia or difficulty in sleeping
  • Irritability or restlessness
  • Difficulty in concentrating
  • Wanting to avoid things that trigger anxiety

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorder involves repeated episodes of these uncontrollable feelings in a person. Even, such symptoms build into a specific disorder. A person may want to avoid things and people that make him feel the stress. A person can experience extreme worry, controlling behaviour and a sense of doom when gripped in a situation. A person going through these symptoms can have different types of anxiety disorders which are :

Generalised Anxiety Disorder :- A person with GAD (Generalised anxiety disorder) feels an extreme and persistent negativity and fear even in normal routine and events. Such fear and apprehension is not directly related to the actual circumstance. The person feels tired physically and find it difficult to control. A person suffering from GAD even develop signs of depression.

Social Anxiety Disorder :- A person with SAD (social anxiety disorder) often feel anxious irrationally during social interactions. Any kind of public interaction and gatherings make the person feel an irrational anxiety. The person feels embarrassed, feared and self conscious during social gatherings. The person has an intense and persistent feeling of being judged and being watched by others. Social anxiety disorder is far more than mere shyness.

Panic disorder :- A person suffering from panic disorder feels striked by some sudden feelings of extreme intensity and fear of terror. The intensity reach at it’s peak in just a few minutes. This leads to panic attack with shortness of breath, chest pain feelings of impending doom and heart palpitations. With the fear that it will happen again, the person tries to avoid such situations.

Selective mutism :- This is a type of anxiety disorder in children that can lead to disability to go to school. Children with selective mutism find it difficult to speak somewhere like in school even when if they are able to speak with their closed ones and family members. Later, it can prove to be a hurdle in their work.

Phobia :- A person with phobia has an irrational anxiety about a common thing, situations and places. The person when exposed to such events, things or situations feels very fearful , helpless, embarrassed and worrying. The person always tries to avoid that thing or situation provoking his anxiety at any cost. A phobia can even lead to panic attacks in some people.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder :- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a state of persistent and excessive thoughts in a person that makes him to behave compulsively and repeatedly. These unwanted recurring thoughts leads to repetitive behaviours. These compulsive actions makes the person feel relieved from the anxious reoccurring thoughts running over his mind.

Whatever the type this disorder is, it is linked with traumatic life experiences. These events trigger anxiety in people already prone to anxiety. There are many medical problems like heart disease, respiratory disorders, thyroid, diabetes, chronic pain and IBS that are linked with causing anxiety disorders. Anxiety can also be the side effect of medications. Inherit traits can also lead to anxiety. Anxiety can even lead to worse physical and mental problems like depression, insomnia, social isolation, poor life quality and digestive problems.

Legal Framework for Disability

Before delving into whether anxiety is a disability, it is important to understand the legal framework that applies to disability in general. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the primary law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace, in public accommodations, and in other areas of public life. The ADA defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as walking, seeing, hearing, or learning.

Under the ADA, individuals with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations that allow them to perform their job duties or participate in public life. This can include modifications to the physical environment, such as wheelchair ramps or Braille signage, as well as adjustments to work schedules or job duties.

Is Anxiety a Disability?

Now that we have established the legal framework for disability, we can turn to the question of whether anxiety can be considered a disability. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the anxiety symptoms, the individual’s ability to perform major life activities, and the type of accommodations that may be necessary.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States, affecting approximately 19% of adults each year. While anxiety can be a normal and adaptive response to stress, it can also be a disabling condition that interferes with daily activities and reduces quality of life.

For individuals with severe anxiety, the condition can substantially limit major life activities such as work, school, or social interactions. In these cases, anxiety can be considered a disability under the ADA, and individuals are entitled to reasonable accommodations that allow them to participate in these activities.

Can anxiety stop you from working?

With high severity, anxiety can be a disability to work
With highy severity, anxiety can be a disability to work

The severity of an anxiety disorder can affect your ability to work. Your performance may be affected you will find it very difficult to give value to your work. There are some works that require mental skills and regular dealing with people. People who have an anxiety disorder will find it almost impossible to do such type of work and can lead to an increase in their anxiety levels. However, even extreme anxiety levels do not have any obvious effect on your ability to do physical work. If your job is more of physical skills requiring push and pull, it’s not a problem unless you have any physical impairment. If you are working on a office environment where you have to sit all day long, it can be more challenging to keep going this with the work meaningfully.

There are regulations regarding the benefits a person can seek if he is suffering from such disability. Social Security Disability benefits can be availed if the person is experiencing extreme anxiety since a long time. If the person is noticing signs like excessive apprehension, hyperactivity, lack of vigilance and panic attacks, he can show the same for getting the disability benefits. If an employee who feels anxious while meeting new people, but after a long deep breath, he can continue his work, then he won’t be able to get that benefit. An anxiety disorder that is expected to last for a year or long and will affect your ability to do some meaningful work, if diagnosed, you can apply for such benefits. You might be required to find out a medical information form and give all the medical information about yourself. You may be required to visit a doctor to check the necessary facts. You can even take help of a qualified Disability attorney for this.

Some examples of accommodations that may be necessary for individuals with anxiety include:

  • Flexible work schedules or job duties
  • A quiet workspace
  • Permission to take breaks as needed
  • Access to counseling or mental health services
  • Accommodations for public speaking or other anxiety-provoking situations

Although, it’s true that anxiety can be a disability and it can affect your ability to give meaningful results in your work or in school, it is also true that such situation is not so common. Anxiety disorders can be treated not easily, but with some care. All you need is to follow proper medications along with psychotherapy and other stress reducing techniques. There are treatments that are particularly designed to control, reduce and gradually eliminate the worst signs of your anxiety. However, the severity of your case, your control over the reason of your fear and anxiety, and the type of anxiety disorder you have can affect the effectiveness of such treatment. Even simple lifestyle changes like getting up early, participating in activities that you enjoy, caring relationships and enjoying social interactions, and avoiding alcohol consumption can help you stand against it.

Can anxiety cause nausea? Learn to cope with it

Can anxiety cause nausea? Learn to cope with it

Anxiety can make a strange sensation in your stomach causing nausea
Anxiety can make a strange sensation in your stomach causing nausea

Many people come across the feelings of stress in their life. This stress leads to anxiety which makes a person heavy minded temporarily. Infact, it is common to experience stress and anxiety in the life for a while. However, such emotions should not affect your capacity to carry on the life. People who have anxiety often have symptoms like increased heart rate, high breathing rate, more blood in the brain and tension in muscles. These symptoms are due to the natural fight or flight response that our brain takes as a solution against that stress stimulant. Such response may even cause a strange sensation in your stomach. This feeling of uneasiness in your stomach can often lead to more intense problems. Anxiety proves to be a major factor causing nausea. This article overviews the reality about anxiety nausea and how it can affect your body. A few ways are also discussed to help you cope with it :-

What is anxiety nausea?

Anxiety nausea is the uneasiness in stomach felt due to anxiety responses
Anxiety nausea is the uneasiness in stomach felt due to anxiety responses

The term nausea is used for a queasy feeling in the stomach that can make a person feel like vomiting. That urge to vomit doesn’t always cause vomiting. There are numerous factors like taking pills at empty stomach, drinking alcohol in excess or eating too little that cause nausea. You might not be ready to relate nausea with anxiety but, studies have shown that one significant reason for nausea is experiencing symptoms of anxiety. Feeling nauseous is a concerning side effect of anxiety. Anxiety in a person induce various symptoms that give other side effects. When there’s an increase in heart rate and breathing rate, blood increasing in the brain, it can cause a quirky sensation in the stomach that is similar to the butterflies in the stomach felt before attending a job interview. This feeling can last for a long time, make you to vomit and even cause other irritating issues related to the overall health.

Why does anxiety make you feel sick?

Anxiety can make you feel sick about your stomach apart from nausea
Anxiety can make you feel sick about your stomach apart from nausea

This question might be running in your mind after reading what is anxiety nausea. Anxiety can make you feel so ill. As, we have already said, anxiety in a person induce a fight or flight response. As a protection against the anxious feelings, our brain releases neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters make our body ready to fight against that threat that is causing such feelings of stress. But, while preparing your body, some neurotransmitters get into the digestive system as our stomach has the second largest number of nerves in the whole body. This can upset your stomach and you feel a queasy feel in it. This uneasiness can urge you to vomit which is the prime symptom of nausea. In such way, anxiety can make you feel sick to your stomach and cause various other gastronomic problems. And, if that’s not enough, it is observed that an excessive anxiety level can make a person physically ill.

Anxiety causes numerous symptoms like rapid breathing, shortness of breath, headache, increased blood pressure and heart rate along with nausea. When these feelings are frequent, it can make you get fever. Apart from nausea, the other gastronomic problems caused by nausea include indigestion, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain. Anxiety is also proven to be a reason behind Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Such side effects may continue for days when the anxiety levels reach their extreme. Chronic stress, a common problem makes people suffer low grade fever while some experiences a sudden spike in their body temperature.

The fight or flight response that anxiety introduces in a person and creates nausea can also cause dizziness. Sometimes, a sudden change in blood pressure due to this response gives a person a boost of wooziness or lightheadedness. This happens when hormones like histamines and cortisol are released during that fight or flight response. Along with hampering your digestive tract, they can affect the homeostatic balance of your inner ear that leads to vestibular disorder. That is the reason why many people feel lightheaded when urging to vomit. It can also cause chest pain, difficulty in breathing, weakness and nervousness.

This fight or flight response teamed with anxiety has another side effect. It is studied that there is a significant population of anxious people who suffered a loss in their appetite. People facing anxiety nausea are do consumed by the reason of their anxiety that they don’t find it worthy to do something. This can even make people avoid important activities like eating. You might have experienced the same. The stress about making a presentation before the deadline could make you skip a meal. You don’t feel like the appetite is calling you. This clears the fact why a major population skips at least one meal in a month.

Nausea in the morning

Anxiety is the major reason causing nausea in the morning
Anxiety is the major reason causing nausea in the morning

Did you know that anxiety is the major factor causing nausea in the morning apart from pregnancy. Anxiety can cause nausea in the morning in a variety of ways. The stress about an upcoming meeting will trigger the stress response in your brain that can cause nausea. As we have already showed you how stress hormones trigger nerves present in stomach that upsets your stomach causing other gastronomic issues which can also lead to nausea in the morning. Anxiety also increases blood pressure and heart rate making it difficult to sleep. Anxiety is linked with insomnia. An irregular sleep pattern caused by anxiety can also result into nausea sometimes.

How to cope with anxiety nausea?

You can cope with anxiety nausea by eating healthy and following other tricks
You can cope with anxiety nausea by eating healthy and following other tricks

While nausea is the response of a defensive act that your body do for it’s better, you can take following measures to tell your brain not to be hard to itself and keep it easy:-

Eat healthy

Eating a meal that is not too harsh for your stomach is recommended. For not feeling uneasy, eat food items that are not too spicy, salty or greasy. Keep your stomach some time to digest food by eating in small portions. Avoid big meals. Try to eat light meals that is easy to digest avoid nausea getting severe.

Drink plenty of water

It is important to stay hydrated. Dehydration is an other side effect of anxiety nausea and keeping yourself hydrated is a self care activity. Vomiting can make your body lacking with water. Keep it hydrated with enough water. But avoid consuming alcohol and limit the caffeine intake.

Exercise daily

Exercising is important for your mental and physical health. Doing exercise is responsible for increasing endorphins in your body, the feel good hormones that can help in preventing stress. Exercise also works to relax down your muscles. A daily exercise is best thing you can do to control anxiety nausea.

Try herbal remedies

To reduce the effect of nausea, you can try some herbal remedies like drinking a mint tea or ginger tea. A hot mint or ginger tea relaxes your muscles from inside and keep your digestive system active. With doctor’s advise, you can take herbal supplements like passionflower, kava and valerian.

Do relaxation exercises

As anxiety is a mental issue that can be coped with breathing exercises, you can try them to solve anxiety nausea. Relaxation exercises like yoga and meditation focuses on breathing. When you take some time concentrating on your inhalation and exhalation, you feel relaxed. Inhaling slowly through nose and exhaling slowly through mouth shifts all your attention from stress and you feel relieved.

Get a good sleep

Lack of sleep makes a person feel anxious. Also, an unpleasant sleep pattern causes nausea in the morning. You can yourself stay protected against anxiety nausea simply by getting a good sleep. You can follow simple rules like not eating heavy before bed, avoiding gadgets, going to sleep at the same time everyday, etc to improve your sleep pattern.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a natural response of your body against fear or danger. It can trigger the neurotransmitters in your body to fight against such danger. Anxiety nausea is a sign felt by a large population suffering from stress. Such nausea can even cause dizziness, other gastronomic problems and make you sick about your stomach. Anxiety can also be the reason behind that morning queasiness in your stomach. However there are normal tricks you can implement to cope with such anxiety. However, it is advised to consult a doctor if the anxiety nausea is ruining your quality of time and you are not being able to manage on your own.

Anxiousness – How to reduce anxiety with 15 easy tricks

Anxiousness – How to reduce anxiety with 15 easy tricks

There are numerous normal tips that you can follow to worry less and reduce anxiety
There are numerous normal tips that you can follow to worry less and reduce anxiety

Anxiety is becoming a common problem nowadays. Cases of this mental condition are increasing rapidly in the World. And, we are not talking about a slight feeling of worry and uneasiness, but a serious mental illness that can interfere with your daily actions. Feeling worried and stressed all the time, developing fear about something and avoiding life situations, experiencing sudden panic attacks comes with anxiousness. The good thing is that you can treat such emotions. Apart from seeking a professional help of a psychologist or therapist, there are numerous natural tricks that works successfully in reducing stress. As basic lifestyle changes works great in fighting against anxiety, these are the 15 tricks that you can follow to naturally reduce stress :-

Do yoga

Practising yoga reduces heart rate helping in reducing anxiety
Practising yoga reduces heart rate helping in reducing anxiety

Anxiousness increases heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels in a person. It can even lead to heart palpitations. A simple yoga practice can reduce your anxiety and depression levels. Yoga is proven to maintain proper blood pressure and reducing heart rate. Cytokines, the molecules that are released when a person is in stress and cause heath issues like inflammation are also reduced by practicing yoga.

Drink chamomile tea

Chamomile tea relaxes your nerves and reduces anxiety
Chamomile tea relaxes your nerves and reduce anxiety

Tea has been used since ancient times for medicinal purposes. In China, tea was used to reduce anxiety. Chamomile tea is proven to reduce anxiety symptoms in researches, specially in people suffering from generalised anxiety disorder. Drinking chamomile tea can help relax your nerves and aids you in sleep. The tea contains a component called Matricaria Recutita that binds your brain receptors. You can also drink green tea that is also used to reduce muscle tension and blood pressure.

Get a good sleep

Getting a good sleep can really help in reducing anxiety
Getting a good sleep can really help in reducing anxiety

As people suffering with anxiety feels problem in sleeping, getting a good sleep can really help in reducing stress. Insomnia is a symptom of anxiety and by improving your sleep quality, you can improve your mental health. Simple hacks for better sleep like not watching TV, using phone, laptop or computer while in bed, only sleeping when you are tired at night, keeping the bedroom dark and cool, avoiding drinking coffee or tea before bed, sleeping at the same time each day and writing your thoughts down before sleep can promote your health.

Stop smoking

You should stop smoking and drinking alcohol to reduce anxiety
You should stop smoking and drinking alcohol to reduce anxiety

One thing that is common in most smokers is that they try to smoke whenever they go through a tough situation. A stressful situation stimulates smoking in their mind. But, smoking can make your anxiety levels higher rather than reducing it. As cigarette contains the compound called nicotine along with other chemicals, that are also linked with boosting stress in our brain, avoiding smoking can reduce anxiousness.

Try diaphragmatic breathing

You can reduce stress naturally by trying diaphragmatic breathing
You can reduce stress naturally by trying diaphragmatic breathing

Anxiety releases cortisol in the body that is linked with fight or flight response. It’s excess can push anxiety levels further. Diaphragmatic breathing is a proven deep breathing method that reduces cortisol levels in your body. You have to lie flat on your back with knees bent and place one hand on upper chest and other on stomach below the ribcage. You have to inhale slowly through nose such that the hand on stomach rises upward and exhale slowly through mouth such that belly button gets down and your stomach reaches it’s initial position. Practice this for 10 minutes many times daily.

Go for a run

Running boosts heart rate that proves beneficial when trying to reduce anxiety
Running boosts heart rate that proves beneficial when trying to reduce anxiety

A quick boost in heart rate can actually prove very positive if trying to reduce anxiety. Running will give your body that boost. Running just for 5 minutes at a high speed is enough to keep your heart pumped. However, you can run more. If running is not your think, you can try to walk at full speed for 1 minute and then jog for the remaining time. Concentrate on your breathing as you run. With running you tells the amygdala that it is doing something good to keep you safe and your anxiety is reduced in that state.

Take a cold shower

Taking a cold shower gives calming effect to your body and reduces stress
Taking a cold shower gives calming effect to your body and reduces stress

One intense trick that can reduce even intense anxiety levels is to take a cold shower. Taking a cold shower or swimming in cold water can give a calming effect to your body. Even placing your hands and feet in cold water for a few minutes can give that effect. If you want to try something more, you can dunk your face in a bowl of cold water filled with ice cubes for around 30 seconds. While sounding to be unpleasant, this technique can do wonder in calming you down.

Do exercise

Exercising is better for mental health also and can reduce anxiety
Exercising is better for mental health also and can reduce anxiety

Moving your body can be beneficial for your mental health also. You can actually reduce stress easily with regular exercise. Not just exercising prevents getting stress, it benefits people with stress by reducing stress hormones and releasing mood improving hormones like endorphins. Exercise also improves quality of sleep. You don’t need to be fancy about it. Do something that you enjoy like dancing, jogging or hiking.

Cut down your caffeine intake

You can reduce stress by cutting down your caffeine intake
You can reduce stress by cutting down your caffeine intake

As caffeine, the compound which is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks and some supplements can increase your alertness levels, it can also increase the levels of your anxiety by peaking out your adrenaline. While some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, it is advised to reduce the amount of caffeine you intake. Especially people who are caffeine intolerant and feel anxious by drinking coffee or tea should avoid taking caffeine to reduce anxiety. Even if you are not that much caffeine sensitive, you should drink coffee or tea in moderation.

Listen to your favorite music

As music has the ability to change your mood, it can reduce anxiety levels
As music has the ability to change your mood, it can reduce anxiety levels

Music has the power to change our mood, as such music has the ability to reduce stress also. Even studies have proved the calming effect of music in boosting immune system and fighting against negative feelings. It increases emotions of happiness and pleasure in the brain that replaces stress and fear. Listening to your favorite music or listening a particular genre that you enjoy prove very effective in making you calm in short run.

Recognize your feelings

Recognizing your feelings of anxiety can help in reducing anxiety
Recognizing your feelings of anxiety can help in reducing stress

People who are suffering from feelings of fear and anxiety often take it as a part of their life and don’t recognize them as feelings. Try naming your sensations and feelings. Recognizing your feelings as anxiety can reduce symptoms of anxiety. Consider your anxiety as a temporary feeling, not a reality. Keep this in mind that this time will also pass. When you think about your stress and talk yourself through it, you are simply saying stop to your brain that acts as a thought stopping remedy.

Spend time with friends

You can reduce stress by spending time with friends and family members
You can reduce stress by spending time with friends and family members

People with anxiety disorder often feel lonely which can even lower their self worth and self confidence. People with low social interactions are more likely to have the symptoms of depression. Spending time with good friends or family members prove very good in reducing stress. When you spend a time full of fun with your friends, your life colors out. A good social engagement can improve your self confidence and self worth. A good company of a person you like is also linked with increasing oxytocin in your body which acts as a stress reliever.

Be organized

Getting organized and avoiding procrastination helps in reducing stress
Getting organized and avoiding procrastination helps in reducing stress

One way to get rid of anxiety fast is to get organized in your life. Procrastination becomes a common trait in people with anxiety. Procrastinating things makes you leave tasks for future that increases pressure and increases anxiousness. Avoiding procrastination will help you focus on your priorities. You should get organized to alleviate anxiety. Making a to-do list, prioritizing things that are needed to be done and meeting deadlines will make work easier and you won’t be confused in doing multiple things together.

Follow the 3-3-3 rule

By concentrating on your sight, sound and touch with 333 rule, you can reduce anxiety
By concentrating on your sight, sound and touch with 333 rule, you can reduce anxiety

One simple technique that can effectively reduce your anxiety right now and makes you more relaxed in the 333 rule. The 333 rule for anxiety makes you concentrate on your sight, sound and touch. With a pause, you need to look at three physical objects around you and notice every small details in them. After which you need to listen to three sounds around you and notice small details. The next step involves moving any three body parts like rotating your ankles, raising eyebrows. This focus creates a relaxing symphony in your mind that works to calm you down.

Laugh more

Laughing relaxes your muscles, increases feel good hormones and reduces anxiety
Laughing relaxes your muscles, increases feel good hormones and reduces anxiety

Laughter is the best medicine, for anxiety also. Laughter is responsible for relaxing your muscles, promoting immune system function and releasing feel good hormones in your body. Laughing reduces muscle tension and relieves your stress response. Introducing laughter in your everyday life will reduce anxiety naturally. Watch a comedy movie or TV show or do some funny stuff with your friends to get relief from stress.

While stress and anxiety can affect a person’s personal and professional life, managing it can be simpler than it seems. Before anxiety starts controlling your mind, you can follow these simple tricks in your life to reduce stress naturally. Right before you seek any professional help, these common hacks can ridiculously reduce your anxiety levels and makes you calmer.

Death Anxiety – Symptoms and how to deal with it

Death Anxiety – Symptoms and how to deal with it

Death anxiety is the common and persistent fear about death
Death anxiety is the common and persistent fear about death

Death is something that nobody likes to talk about because it’s a very difficult and painful truth. Just hearing the word “death” can make someone feel afraid and nervous. Everyone has a fear of their own death, and this fear can affect how they live their life. People try to avoid talking about death because it’s considered a taboo topic, but it’s something that we can’t avoid. It’s normal to feel scared when thinking about the process of dying and what happens after we die, but if this fear starts to interfere with our daily lives, it can become a disorder. This anxiety about death is called Thanatophobia, and it’s a common component of different types of anxiety disorders. If you’re experiencing this type of anxiety, don’t worry. Keep reading to learn more about Thanatophobia and how to deal with it.

What is death anxiety?

Death anxiety is an anxiety disorder making you fear death and death process
Death anxiety is an anxiety disorder making you fear death and death process

Death anxiety is a pervasive fear and concern about the inevitability of death. Although it’s not considered a distinct anxiety disorder, it can be a component of other anxiety disorders and depression. Death anxiety can also manifest as a phobia, where an individual experiences extreme fear and avoidance of situations or events that may lead to death, such as falling ill.

The fear and anxiety associated with death can be so intense that it leads to an apprehension about separation and loss, particularly with regards to loved ones. In extreme cases, death anxiety can significantly impair a person’s ability to conduct their daily activities or even leave their home.

While there’s ongoing debate about the factors that contribute to death anxiety, age, gender, religiosity, and psychological state are often cited as potential influencers. For instance, older individuals may not fear death itself, but may be more worried about the dying process. Women may be more concerned about the death of loved ones, while individuals with a strong religious background may have a particular mindset about death that contributes to anxiety.

Finally, an individual’s psychological state may also play a role in the development of death anxiety. For example, those with high levels of self-importance may be more susceptible to experiencing symptoms of death anxiety compared to those with higher levels of humility.

Symptoms of death anxiety

Death anxiety is a phobia that make you avoid certain situations
Death anxiety is a phobia that make you avoid certain situations

Death anxiety is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is closely related to specific phobias. This type of phobia can cause persistent and overwhelming fear and apprehension surrounding the prospect of death, which can significantly interfere with one’s daily activities and quality of life. In addition to being associated with various anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and panic disorder, there are a number of other medical conditions whose symptoms are often linked to death anxiety.

Some common symptoms of death anxiety may include:

  • Having an irrational anxiety or fear when thinking and talking about the death process and one’s own death.
  • Panic attacks that are caused due to that anxiety getting to an extreme in a sudden.
  • Experiencing irregular and increased heart rate, hot flashes, dizziness and sweating.
  • Trying to avoid every such situation, thing or event that you think where thinking about death and its process will be required.
  • A sudden increase in your mild anxiety levels when you think about the death of a loved one, when that family member is ill. You will be worrying excessively about their health. It is also due to physiological distress.
  • You may also get stomach pain when thinking anything related to death.
  • You may feel a loss of control over yourself and get an extreme fear of dying of fear of impeding doom due to panicking.
  • Feeling depressed and anxious normally.

How to deal with death anxiety

There are many mental treatments to deal with death anxiety
There are many mental treatments to deal with death anxiety

Whatever the cause of your death anxiety it, whether it is due to the fear of loved ones dying before they had fallen seriously ill or it is due to the religious beliefs taught to you, there are a few solutions to cope up with this situation. As death anxiety is more likely in people with low self-esteem and a high self importance, a few mental treatment methods will be perfect to treat this mental condition. Along that, it is also observed that people who take care of their health are unlikely to develop it’s symptoms. So, along with a few lifestyle changes these few techniques can prove to be very effective in creating a healthy mindset and fighting against this problem :-

Get an exposure therapy

Individuals experiencing death anxiety often develop a deep-seated fear of death that can lead them to avoid anything that may remind them of their mortality. However, exposure therapy offers a different approach by encouraging individuals to confront their fears directly. During exposure therapy, patients work with a trained therapist to face their fear of death in a controlled and safe environment. Rather than avoiding situations that trigger their anxiety, they are gradually exposed to them in a way that allows them to learn how to manage their fear and anxiety in a healthy way.

While this approach may seem daunting, exposure therapy has been shown to be highly effective in helping individuals overcome their fear of death. By gradually confronting their fears in a safe and controlled setting, individuals can gradually learn to reduce their anxiety and develop the confidence to face even their most fearful thoughts. With the guidance of a skilled therapist, exposure therapy can be a powerful tool for individuals struggling with death anxiety to take back control of their lives.

Practice self care

If you’re struggling with death anxiety, there are several self-relaxation techniques you can practice at home to help ease your mind and confront your fears. One of the simplest and most effective methods is deep breathing. Find a comfortable space in your home, and completely relax your mind while focusing solely on your breath. Engaging in simple activities like counting the tiles in your bathroom can also help improve your focus and provide relief.

In addition to relaxation techniques, making lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on reducing death anxiety. Starting your day early, avoiding alcohol and drugs, prioritizing regular exercise, and maintaining a nutritious diet are all effective ways to improve your mental and physical well-being while managing your anxiety. By taking proactive steps towards self-care and implementing healthy habits, you can work towards a happier and more peaceful state of mind.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

If you find yourself struggling with unhealthy behavioral patterns that lead to compulsive actions and avoidance of certain situations due to fear, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be the solution you need. CBT is a proven method aimed at modifying these patterns and helping you adopt new, healthier ways of thinking.

A skilled therapist will work with you to create practical strategies that will assist you in overcoming your anxiety and fear, leading to a sense of calm and well-being. By addressing the underlying thoughts and beliefs that drive your behavior, CBT empowers you to take control of your life and make lasting changes.

Whether you struggle with obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety, or any other anxiety-related condition, CBT can be a valuable tool to help you overcome your challenges and lead a fulfilling life. With the support of a skilled therapist, you can learn to manage your anxiety and regain a sense of control over your life.

Consult a psychologist

When it comes to tackling death anxiety, having a strong social support network can be an incredibly effective strategy. Although death is a topic that is often avoided, openly discussing it with others can help to alleviate anxiety levels. Seeking the guidance of a psychotherapist who specializes in talk therapy can be particularly beneficial in this regard. These professionals possess the expertise to read a person’s thoughts and emotions, and can provide the necessary tools to confront negative situations with greater ease.

Additionally, consulting with a psychologist can help you to identify the underlying causes of your death anxiety. By working collaboratively, you and your psychologist can develop a practical and effective strategy to combat your fears through constructive discussion. With the right support, it is possible to overcome death anxiety and achieve a greater sense of peace and well-being.

Conclusion

Death is a universal truth that we all must face at some point in our lives. It’s natural to feel anxious about it, and different factors can contribute to this anxiety across various age groups. However, there’s a fine line between experiencing mild anxiety and allowing that fear to control your life. If you find yourself avoiding everything due to an overwhelming fear of death, you may be experiencing symptoms of death anxiety.

It’s important to address this issue early on. If your anxiety has persisted for over six months and is interfering with your daily activities, seeking professional help from a doctor is highly recommended. Keep in mind that regardless of the severity of your condition, there are effective methods to manage and overcome death anxiety. With the help of trained professionals and appropriate coping strategies, it is possible to find peace and alleviate the distress caused by this type of anxiety.