At the beginning of 2020, few believed what this year would hold. Looking back on the past year, we have all journeyed through the unimaginable experiences of a global pandemic. Many lost jobs, some lost loved ones, and all of us have walked through the endless stream of coronavirus-related bad news and even darker prospects.
For some, especially those who were already struggling with feelings of anxiety, the pandemic brought a sudden and unexpected shattering of the status quo. Few could have anticipated the effects that a global pandemic would wreak across our world, such as global lockdowns, job losses, fears of others, and the anxiety-inducing need to wear a mask wherever we travel.
The events of this year may have provided the first experiences of serious or severe anxiety that you have noticed. At first, the effects of severe anxiety can be scary and shocking. However, learning a bit more about the symptoms of anxiety and how to find help can give you hope for facing the uncertainty of tomorrow with confidence.
Is It Anxiety?
While each of us will experience a heightened state of anxious thoughts and fears at different seasons of life, some will struggle more intensely with ongoing anxiety than others. When those experiences of anxiety begin to impact one’s daily life, it may be time to seek out help.
To better understand if your feelings of anxiety may be signs of a more serious diagnosis, ask yourself how many of the following mental issues you struggle with on a consistent basis:
- Uncontrollable, racing thoughts on worst-case-scenarios
- Constant overthinking on situations or conversations
- Difficulties concentrating and focusing
- Consistent feelings of dread, panic, or ‘impending doom’ in normal situations
- Ongoing feelings of anger or irritability
- Heightened alertness in normal circumstances
- Difficulty falling asleep or desiring to sleep too much
- Sudden changes in appetite
- The desire to seek an escape from your current situation
- Dissociation from your current reality
Latent, ongoing feelings of anxiety can also manifest in physical symptoms, which may cause you to spiral into further anxiety as you begin to grow concerned with your health. These physical symptoms may include:
- sweating
- heavy and fast breathing
- hot flushes or blushing
- dry mouth,
- shaking
- hair loss
- fast heartbeat
- extreme tiredness or lack of energy
- dizziness and fainting
- stomach aches and sickness
The sudden onset of one or more of these physical symptoms may be a sign of what is commonly referred to as a “panic attack” – which can lead to difficulties functioning in daily life or can place you in a dangerous situation.
Contact Me Today To Find Hope In The Midst Of Anxiety
As a licensed, clinical therapist specializing in trauma and anxiety, I understand how hard it can be to find hope in the midst of a difficult, life-altering season of life. As the coronavirus pandemic continues to unfold around us, and the effects of lockdowns, shutdowns, and uncertainty persist, it is vital to find someone you can lean on for hope.
If you are experiencing an ongoing struggle with anxiety, especially related to the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact me today to set up a worry-free consultation. I am ready to provide therapeutic options that can deliver hope, healing, and confidence for the days ahead. If you or someone you love is in need of help, contact me today.
