Myths about anxiety disorder you need to discard

Anxiety is the most common mental health disorder in the US. It is usually confusing and because it doesn't sound as life-distorting as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, most people treat it with less regard. Why not, everyone gets anxious at some point, right?

Well, anxiety disorder goes beyond that.

Let's unmask some common myths surrounding anxiety disorder so you can take the right step.

”Anxiety disorder is nothing to worry about"

Many people think anxiety disorder isn't a big deal because everyone feels anxious at some point. Fear, some anxiety right before an interview or presentation. But that's not an anxiety disorder.

An anxiety disorder is a persistent and disproportionate feeling of ANXIETY or dread that can impact one's daily function. That means, that everyone feels anxious at some point doesn't mean they have anxiety disorder. It is a disorder when this feeling becomes a daily occurrence, to the point that it inhibits the individual's life.

For example, a person with social anxiety may be fearful of being around people to the extent of avoiding social gatherings or situations that may improve their employment prospects. As such, these people are at a higher risk of isolation, depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts.

This isn't "nothing to worry about."

"It will go away with time"

As I have said, anxiety disorders are persistent, chronic. Sadly, anxiety disorders may never truly go away unless you do something about it. There are ways to manage and even cure anxiety disorder, such as through exposure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, physical activity, meditation, and medication. At Hope Mental Health, we can help you by assessing your personal situation and the root cause of your anxiety disorder to determine the best strategy.

"I can handle my anxiety on my own"

People who hold on to this myth are at risk of mismanaging their anxiety, thereby subjecting themselves to unfortunate circumstances they could have otherwise avoided with professional help.

I've come across many patients who thought they could handle their anxiety themselves. Until it got worse and they had to seek help.

You don't want your anxiety to get worse over time as the consequences can be grave. Please get help now.

"Only weak people feel anxious"

Even the strongest of us can become a victim of a mental illness. Issues like anxiety disorders are a complex mix of biological pathways and environmental factors that you may have no control over. Even genetics can play a role.

If you have an anxiety disorder, do not beat yourself up for being weak. And no mental health provider will judge you for seeking help.

"I'll be fine if only I avoid stressful situations"

People who hold on to this myth about anxiety disorders may end up avoiding friends, work, and other things that may have otherwise impacted their lives positively. Truth is, strong people do not run from their problems.

It's better to not live in denial. If you're battling with anxiety and intrusive thoughts, you'll make a world of difference if you can own up to your situation and seek help.

We want to help. Come talk to us today.

Author

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN Satu Woodland is owner and clinician of Hope Mental Health, an integrative mental health practice located at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.  Ms. Woodland with her background in nursing, prefers a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care that addresses the mind and body together. While Ms. Woodland provides medication management services in all her patients, she believes in long-lasting solutions that include a number of psychotherapies, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy, attention to lifestyle, evidenced based alternative psychiatric care and spirituality. If you’d like to gain control over your mental health issues, call Hope Mental Health at 208-918-0958, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an initial consultation.