Understanding Anxiety: How to Assess Your Symptoms

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterised by excessive worry, fear, or apprehension. Unlike everyday anxiety, anxiety disorders involve prolonged and heightened responses that disrupt your daily activities, relationships, and quality of life. In New Zealand, anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues, affecting around 1 in 4 Kiwis at some stage in their lives.

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Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder

Recognising anxiety symptoms is the first step toward getting help. Common symptoms include:

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• Persistent worrying or fear
• Restlessness or difficulty relaxing
• Feeling overwhelmed or irritable
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
• Sleep disturbances such as insomnia
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach pains, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking

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If you find yourself regularly experiencing these symptoms, it might be beneficial to speak with a healthcare professional.

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Types of Anxiety Disorders

There are several different types of anxiety disorders, including:

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• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about various things, from work to health.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations, often linked to worries about embarrassment or judgment by others.
• Panic Disorder: Characterised by sudden and repeated panic attacks—intense periods of fear that peak within minutes.
• Phobias: Excessive fear of specific things or situations, such as heights, spiders, or flying.

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Assessing Your Anxiety: When to Seek Help

Feeling anxious occasionally is normal, but when anxiety starts controlling your life, it's essential to assess your symptoms. Consider the following questions:

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• Do your worries significantly interfere with your daily routine?
• Have your relationships or work been affected by anxiety?
• Are you avoiding certain situations due to fear or anxiety?
• Do you experience physical symptoms regularly?

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Answering yes to any of these questions might indicate that seeking help could be beneficial.

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Anxiety Management Strategies

Managing anxiety effectively involves a combination of approaches. Here are practical strategies you can implement:

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1. Lifestyle Adjustments

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• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can significantly reduce stress and improve your mood.
• Healthy Eating: A balanced diet supports your physical and mental well-being.
• Adequate Sleep: Establishing good sleep habits can lessen anxiety symptoms.

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2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

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• Meditation: Regular mindfulness meditation helps calm an anxious mind.
• Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing helps reduce the body's stress response.
• Yoga: Combines physical poses, breathing exercises, and meditation, effectively managing anxiety.

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3. Psychological Therapies

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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and modifying unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours contributing to anxiety. By addressing these negative cognitions and actions, CBT helps individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms, leading to reduced anxiety symptoms. Typically, CBT involves weekly sessions over a period of 8 to 20 weeks, depending on individual needs.

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Medicinal Cannabis: A Potential Option for Managing Anxiety?

Recently, medicinal cannabis has gained attention in New Zealand as a potential option for managing anxiety symptoms. Medicinal cannabis products can be prescribed by healthcare providers based on individual needs, and while ongoing scientific research continues to explore its effectiveness, some individuals report positive outcomes. If you are considering medicinal cannabis, it's essential to discuss this thoroughly with your healthcare provider to explore its suitability and understand the legal and health-related considerations involved.

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Getting Help in New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, New Zealand offers several support resources:

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• General Practitioner (GP): Your first step toward diagnosis and treatment.
• Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand: mentalhealth.org.nz offers comprehensive resources and support.
• Lifeline: Available 24/7 at 0800 543 354 for immediate support.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can anxiety disorders be cured?

While anxiety disorders may not always be completely "cured," with appropriate treatment many individuals experience improvement in symptoms. Effective management typically involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medication, allowing most people to lead fulfilling lives.

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2. Does everyone experience anxiety the same way?

No, anxiety symptoms and their severity can vary greatly between individuals. Factors such as personal experiences, genetics, and environment can influence how anxiety manifests and impacts each person.

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3. Is medication always necessary for treating anxiety?

Not always. Treatment varies depending on individual circumstances. Many people successfully manage anxiety through lifestyle changes, psychological therapies like CBT, and relaxation techniques without needing medication. Medication may be recommended based on symptom severity and personal preference.

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4. How common are anxiety disorders in New Zealand?

Approximately 1 in 4 New Zealanders experience anxiety disorders during their lifetime, making anxiety one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in the country. This highlights the importance of recognising symptoms and seeking appropriate support.

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5. What should I do if I'm worried about someone else’s anxiety?

If you are concerned about someone else's anxiety, gently encourage them to speak with a professional. Offer ongoing emotional support, patience, and understanding, as navigating anxiety can be challenging and your presence can make a significant difference.

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The information provided here is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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