Anxiety & Panic

Anxiety is a painful uneasiness of mind, usually over an anticipated ill. An abnormal apprehension and fear, often accompanied by physiological symptoms such as sweating, increased pulse rate, doubt about the nature and reality of the threat, along with self-doubt are common signs of anxiety.

We all feel anxious at various points in our lives when our stress level becomes overwhelming. Anxiety is a close relative of excitement, but it is best described in terms of worry, or an uneasy feeling of apprehension and impending doom. In a person with an anxiety disorder, the worry is persistent and habitual, often initiated by unrealistic situations or thoughts. In addition, this worry seems uncontrollable and often interferes with the ability to concentrate or otherwise function normally. This type of anxiety may be learned and therefore can be unlearned.

The most common complaints of people suffering from chronic anxiety include:

strong anxiety episodes
racing heart/chest discomfort
trembling
nausea
hot and cold flashes
feelings of unreality and disorientation
dizziness
scary, uncontrollable thoughts
depressed feelings
fatigue
feelings of helplessness
panic episodes
muscle tension
migraine headaches
numbness in various parts of the body
strange aches and pains

People suffering from anxiety disorder often have extreme apprehension about the following:

dying
having a heart attack
fainting
losing their breath
going “insane”
losing control
embarrassing themselves in front of others
choking
hurting themselves or someone else

The four most common concerns from this list are:

dying
embarrassing themselves in front of others
going “insane”
losing control

During a panic attack, the sufferer truly feels he/she will lose control, go “insane” or die if they do not get to a “safe” place or person. The “safe” place is usually home or somewhere very familiar and comfortable. The “safe” person is usually a spouse, boy/girlfriend or close friend — someone who can be there if the sufferer needs help. God may seem far away.

If anxiety is a problem that troubles you, call the University Counseling Center at 501-279-4347.

Anxiety/Phobias/Stress

Phobics Anonymous
Phone: 760-322-2673

www.bfrb.org
Trichotillomania Learning Center
Phone: 831-457-1004

www.adaa.org
Anxiety & Depression Association of America

www.panicdisorder.about.com
Panic Disorder: For Friends/Family

Counseling Center - Anxiety and Panic

Contact Information