Feeling anxious all the time can be incredibly frustrating and disruptive. To add to that, anxiety effects the most important functions of a person. But before we look for solutions for this monster called anxiety, let's explore what anxiety is and how it differs from fear.

What is Fear? 

Fear is a basic, intense emotion caused by the detection of an approaching threat, involving an immediate alarm reaction that mobilizes the organism by triggering a set of physiological changes.

What is Anxiety?

It is an emotion wherein one often feels uneasy by uneasiness and physical symptoms of tension in which an individual predicts impending danger, tragedy, or misfortune.

Difference between Anxiety and Fear?

Oftentimes people misunderstand anxiety to be fear. Fear is an essential emotion that safeguards us from real danger in front of us. Fear can make us more alert, it can help us focus. 

When humans hunted for a living, fear was definitely our friend. When we’d hear the roar of a lion, fear would alert us that we needed to hide or run away. Without fear, we wouldn’t have survived that environment.

On the other hand, anxiety is very irrational, suppose there is no Lion (or threat) in front of you or anywhere around, but you start sweating excessively, your heartbeat increases, and your breath is starting to get heavy.

Anxiety Effects on the Mind

Anxiety effects on the mind and body. Impaired Short-term memory is one of the most significant impacts of anxiety on the mind is impaired short-term memory. This impairment can make it difficult to focus, recall information, and perform everyday tasks effectively. Additionally, anxiety effects inhibitory control, leading to difficulties in regulating responses and behaviors, which can affect decision-making and emotional regulation. Beyond these cognitive effects, anxiety imposes physical stress on the nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, immune, and respiratory systems. While occasional anxiety is normal, chronic anxiety can severely disrupt quality of life, leading to behavioral changes and serious health issues. Recognizing and addressing the wide-ranging impacts of anxiety is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.

Should You Seek Professional Help? 

If your anxiety feels overwhelming, interferes with your work, relationships, or overall well-being, it's time to seek professional help. Remember, you're not alone! Taking the first step to address your anxiety can be tough. There's support out there, and you absolutely deserve to feel better.

In case you want to know more about you mental health read our blog on Psychological Awareness here.

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