Stress is usually the cause of anxiety, which is a way people deal with stressful events. Stress makes people feel frustrated or anxious. Anxiety brings about the feelings of apprehension or fear, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Sometimes people know the stressful conditions that cause anxiety, such as work difficulties or family problems. At other times, the source of anxiety is not always known and may lead to anxiety disorder.
Significance
Stress is a normal condition when it arises from events that include working on an important project, going for a job interview, or taking an exam. This leads to anxiety, which is a way of coping with stress. People can use anxiety to their advantage by preparing for the events that are about to occur. However, too much stress can be harmful and cause constant anxiety, the UMMC explains.
Effects
Emotional issues, including loss of a loved one, financial trouble, or illness, which become troubling can lead to anxiety and cause physical reactions. Muscle tension, twitching, headaches, sweating or abdominal pain may result. Severe forms of anxiety can lead to rapid or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, decreased concentration, sexual problems and sleeping difficulty or nightmares.
Warning
Constant worrying may result in generalized anxiety disorder that causes people to become overly concerned about small issues nearly every day. The worries are often exaggerated in the person's mind, and do not merit such extreme anxiety. Other anxiety disorders that cause irrational fears include panic attacks, specific phobias, social phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorders, according to Medline Plus.
Considerations
Anxiety can range from being mild or moderate to severe, according to MotleyHealth.com. Severe anxiety may arise when somebody is not able to handle stress or cope with stress in a productive way. Anxiety disorders can consume people with fear and worry, disrupting their lives. Professional help may be necessary. Anxiety disorders are treatable through therapy and medication.
Prevention/Solution
A good way to prevent anxiety from being too intense is to learn to cope with stress better, Medline Plus says. Lifestyle changes provide a healthy remedy for unnecessary anxiety. A well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, limiting the intake of caffeine and alcohol, and avoiding smoking or drugs help to build a strong body and self-confidence. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation or tai chi provide relief from the daily stresses of life. Better scheduling also helps in dealing with stress. This can include taking breaks from work, planning leisure time, or enjoying activities with family and friends.
