Let's Talk About Mental Health, Particularly Anxiety Disorders

General Overview of Anxiety Disorders
Everyone experiences anxiety at times, but anxiety disorders are different because they involve uncontrollable emotions. An expert explained, "We feel anxious about a test or an interview, but once it's over, the anxiety usually subsides, right? With an anxiety disorder, it doesn't work like that." These disorders typically persist for extended periods, such as six months or more.

Symptoms
There are various types of anxiety disorders, but they generally include physical symptoms. Our expert noted, "Our muscles become sore, we might have sleep difficulties, and we feel constantly on edge, as if always mobilized." It's challenging to control these emotions.
Main symptoms include:

• Sweating
• Shaking
• Blushing
• Breathing difficulties
• Racing heart
• Restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Muscle tension

Recognizing the First Signs of Anxiety Disorders
While it's possible to recognize signs of an anxiety disorder, self-diagnosis is not advisable. Symptoms may include increased anxiety that seems uncontrollable and occurs spontaneously, often without obvious triggers such as tests or major life changes. Online tools like the "Beck Anxiety Inventory" can be helpful, but they are not substitutes for professional assessment.

Supporting Others
The approach to help depends on the individual's needs. For some, increasing social interaction is beneficial. Engaging them in conversations about their feelings can be supportive. However, it's crucial to ask what they truly need and how you can assist.

Self-Help Strategies
Therapy may be sufficient for some, while others might also need medication. Regulating sleep and maintaining a routine with regular, healthy meals can also be beneficial.

Diagnosis
When main symptoms such as difficulty regulating emotions and excessive worry are present, it's important to consult a psychotherapist—not a psychiatrist or psychologist initially. The therapist may conduct tests and provide a specific diagnosis.

Recovery
Recovery varies by the type of anxiety disorder. Some are not chronic and can be effectively treated, leading to a return to normal life within a relatively short period. However, disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder may not be fully curable.

This information is based on an interview with Expert Asya P.