THUNAISevere panic or anxiety can create additional stresses in our life if we do not manage them well. Here are some examples:
Relationship Stress: There are numerous ways in which your symptoms can get in the way of your social connections. For instance, loved ones may find it hard to relate to your feelings of anxiety or panic. Some avoidance behaviors may also prevent you from spending quality time with family and friends.
These are actions a person may take to escape difficult thoughts and feelings. A few examples of avoidance behaviors include completely avoiding a feared situation (ex: not showing up, dropping a class, leaving early). Those closest to you, and supportive friends and family are also subject to feeling the strain caused by your condition, or caregiver stress.
However, despite this, social support is one of the most valuable aspects of your recovery process. Loved ones can provide you with the encouragement you need to deal with your condition. By building your support network, you may be able to get past feelings of loneliness and isolation and maintain healthy relationships.
Professional relationships: Anxiety and other symptoms can make it difficult to focus on your work tasks. It can be challenging to concentrate on work when you are constantly worrying, focused on fears, or in some cases, concerned about when your next panic attack will strike. To manage your symptoms while on the job, first identify your triggers and plan ahead for strategies to get through them.
Inadequate Sleep: Sleep disturbances are a common issue for people with anxiety disorders. Perhaps fearful and worrisome thoughts keep you from staying asleep throughout the night, and problems with getting enough rest can spill over into the day next, causing a lot of morning anxiety. Additionally, stress experienced throughout the day can also contribute to sleep issues at night.
To reduce nighttime anxiety, try practicing better sleep hygiene. This may include setting enough time aside for the proper amount of sleep and keeping a quiet environment. To get past morning anxiety, learn some calming relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Also, use stress management techniques to combat stress felt throughout your day.