The lives we lead are filled with anxiety, much of it low level stuff.  We accept it as part of life.  Then there is another level.  In these uncertain times many of us are anxious about money, jobs, the future. Then there is the anxiety we feel when danger threatens.  This triggers an emotional response in our brain which releases adrenaline, and cortisol into our bloodstream.  This defense mechanism prepares us physically and psychologically to take on a perceived challenge.

There are several sensations we then feel.  We experience butterflies in the stomach, the heart beats faster and breathing rate increases.  All the while we are getting stronger with blood pumping through the body at a faster rate.  We are getting ready to ‘fight or  flight’, this is in response to primitive survival instincts.

In the modern world, daily anxious states might involve getting stuck in rush hour traffic, or waiting at the dentist to have a troublsome tooth pulled.  Although these feelings make us feel uncomfortable, they do not cause prolonged distress.  We can deal with low level stress by taking exercise, talking about problems with those we trust, also listening to music, all these create a feeling of wellbeing.  Anxiety takes on serious proportions when we are constantly in a anxious state, fearful for no apparent reason, this is called general anxiety disorder (GAD).  Approximately one in 4 people will suffer from this distressing condition sometime in their lives.

The symptoms include:

1, Irritable tendencies

2, Headaches

3, Sweating

4, Problems falling asleep

5, Stomach problems

If you are distressed about how bad you are feeling make an appointment to see your doctor.  They will determine if you should be referred to a specialist or provide suitable treatment.

I have included websites here that will help you to learn more:

For the UK,   http://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/

For the USA, http://www.anxiety-usa.org/

For Australia, http://www.anxietyaustralia.com.au/