Anxiety is more than just stress. Anxiety is the brain’s response to real and imagined stress. The way that a therapist will help you manage your anxiety better is different for rational fears compared with irrational fears. Your therapist will help you differentiate between the two different types of fears.

 

A rational fear is something real that you have to confront. An irrational fear is something that technically could happen that you are trying to prepare for even though there is low probability that it will happen.

 

Many people also experience anxiety in their bodies.

 

The following symptoms may indicate an anxiety problem:

• increased heart rate

• stomach aches

• sweaty palms

• jaw clenching

• neck pain

• headaches

 

Anxiety can be treated with psychotherapy, medication, or both talk therapy and medication. People who struggle with anxiety benefit most from both along with lifestyle changes in activity levels, sleep, diet, and strategies done to combat anxiety.

 

There are some people who convince themselves that their baseline level of anxiety is good for their productivity. They may be high functioning, but they are wearing themselves out.

 

At its most severe level, anxiety stops people from living their lives. They may stop seeing friends and family, they fear going out in public, driving, or being around strangers.

 

You do not have to manage your anxiety alone. Signing up for addressing your anxiety can have initial benefits. A therapist will help you get out of your head and do things to help you live more in the moment. It will help you feel better, work better, and strengthen your relationships.