Sometimes we all feel a little agitated, on edge, jittery. Life is complex and often difficult to navigate. We cope as best we can most of the time, but when our fears and concerns pervade everyday life, it can become so disruptive that our functioning is compromised.
There are many types of anxiety. Here are some types:
Situational anxiety occurs legitimately if we are in a tough spot—like encountering a mountain lion while hiking out west. Our adrenaline spike at a time like this is protective and prepares us for evasive action.
Anticipatory anxiety is also very common. If we are facing dental surgery next week or preparing for an important speech, the anticipation helps us to prepare and plan.
Free-floating anxiety, however, can be very disruptive. Our thoughts may flit from one unconnected idea to another: Did I pay that bill? Is the roof leaking? Why didn't my friend call me back? What is that noise outside? Why can't I stop eating junk food?—and on and on.
The amygdala is a small part of the brain that helps to regulate emotions. It tries to help—to guard and protect us from danger, to keep us safe—but sometimes it can become overactive, causing us to overthink, to continually ruminate, and to be driven by free-floating, unproductive anxiety.
Therapy can help us get a handle on our anxiety, to learn how to manage our thoughts, our fears, our exaggerated concerns. Start the journey today to address and begin to alleviate your anxiety. Life can be so much more serene and peaceful if we can understand the antecedents of our anxiety and begin to put things into proper perspective.
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