How do I know if I have an anxiety disorder?

Most people feel anxious while dealing with stressful situations in their life. However, if your response to stress is out of proportion and extreme, and you recurrently experience bouts of anxiety, this could be a case of an anxiety disorder.

What is a quick way to deal with a panic attack?

Whenever you are experiencing a panic attack, a good way to reduce fear and anxiety would be to distract yourself from the trigger. You could do this by focusing on your breathing or by breathing forcefully into a paper bag. You can also try counting numbers from 0 to 100 backwards to distract yourself from the emotions. These methods would help you cope with a singular episode, but if you are experiencing recurrent panic attacks, you must seek advice from your doctor.

How to prevent episodes of anxiety?

If you struggle with anxiety, you must focus on keep distance from things and situations that evoke anxious emotions. Another way to prevent anxiety attacks is by adapting a healthy lifestyle and indulging in wellness activities such as exercises, meditation, etc.

Anxiety

Written By Dr. Lipika KhuranaPGDHHM, BDS

Reviewed By Dr. Lalit Kanodia

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Last updated on: 27 Sep 2022 | 06:23 PM (IST)

Overview

Anxiety disorders are the most common types of mental health conditions. According to a survey in 2017, 44.9 million Indians were estimated to be suffering from anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorder is twice as likely to affect females than males.

It is normal to feel a little anxious and stressed about challenging situations that arise in life. However, when the feeling of anxiety interfere with a person’s day-to-day life, such a condition is suspected to be an anxiety disorder.

People who suffer from anxiety disorders, phobias, or who have a history of panic attacks often try to avoid situations or things that precipitate their anxiety. They are unable to lead a normal life and live in fear of challenging situations. If episodes of anxiety become too frequent and severe, and start affecting a person’s quality of life and everyday behavior, it is essential to visit a doctor to seek care for anxiety. Medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.

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Overview

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