Anxiety is like a superpower; it can be used for good or evil (or something in between). Anxiety is a natural stress and threat response engrained in our genetic code starting at the beginning of human existence.
At Kona, we understand that anxiety can manifest in many ways, whether through constant worry, physical symptoms, or an overwhelming sense of dread. These feelings can be challenging, but there is hope. We're here to support you in understanding and managing your anxiety so that you can lead a fulfilling life.
Ready for this? Anxiety is healthy... in small doses. Anxiety can motivate people to take action, be more productive, connect with others, or prepare for the future. When someone feels anxious, their brain releases dopamine, motivating them to pursue rewards and take action to achieve their desired future.
However, anxiety can be a problem if it's ongoing, intense, hard to control, or out of proportion to the situation. When this happens, it can interfere with your daily activities, relationships, and overall sense of well-being. It's important to remember that anxiety is a common experience and that you don't have to face it alone.
Anxiety in Arizona: Finding Peace Amid the Chaos
Arizona offers a unique environment that can both alleviate and exacerbate anxiety. The state's vast, open spaces and serene landscapes provide an opportunity for relaxation and reflection, helping to soothe the mind. However, the fast-paced growth of cities, traffic congestion, and the pressures of daily life in Arizona can also contribute to heightened anxiety levels. As of 2023, 35.8% of Arizona Adults reported symptoms of anxiety, which is higher than the national average of 32.3%.
Overall, our culture and way of life can be a breeding ground for anxiety if left unchecked. Economic, social, political, and financial volatility, increasing expectations, increasing individualism, and higher consumption of news and internet content all contribute to anxiety overstimulation.
Factors That Contribute to Anxiety
A combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors influences anxiety. Understanding these contributing factors can help you make sense of your anxiety and find the best path forward.
- Genetic Factors: Anxiety often runs in families, indicating a potential genetic predisposition. If you have a family history of anxiety, you might be more prone to experiencing it yourself.
- Biological Factors: Changes in brain chemistry, particularly involving neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can play a significant role in anxiety. These biological factors interact with other aspects of your life, potentially leading to heightened anxiety.
- Environmental Factors: Stressful life events, such as work pressure, financial concerns, or significant changes in your living situation, can trigger or worsen anxiety. These external stressors can make it challenging to manage your emotions and maintain a sense of calm.
- Psychological Factors: Your thoughts and coping mechanisms are crucial in managing anxiety. Negative thinking, avoidance behaviors, and low self-esteem can all contribute to anxiety, making it harder to cope with daily challenges. People who are more sensitive to stress or who tend to expect the worst may be more susceptible to anxiety disorders.
Anxiety throughout Human History
The recognition of anxiety as a distinct condition in Western society has evolved over centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians, such as Hippocrates (460 BC-377 BC) and Galen (157 AD-216AD), described symptoms resembling anxiety, often linking them to imbalances in bodily humors.
Side note: In ancient medicine, humors referred to bodily fluids. An imbalance in humors could cause physical and mental health issues. Kinda interesting, right!?
During the Middle Ages, anxiety was frequently attributed to spiritual or moral failings, with treatment often involving religious interventions. It wasn't until the 19th and early 20th centuries that anxiety began to be understood as a medical condition, with Sigmund Freud contributing significantly by identifying it as a central element of neurosis.
Definition: Neurosis - A mental condition not caused by organic disease.
In the mid-20th century, anxiety disorders were formally categorized as psychiatric diagnoses, leading to the development of various therapeutic approaches and medications to manage the condition.
Our Approach to Treating Anxiety
Anxiety is an issue that all our therapists at Kona Counseling are trained to address. We provide an individualized approach that considers the factors influencing your anxiety. Our goal is to assist you in regaining control of your life and finding serenity amidst turmoil.
We employ a range of proven treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, stress management strategies, and more, to aid in managing and alleviating anxiety. Therapy sessions may involve looking toward the future, examining situations, or reflecting on the past. The blend of these components will be customized to suit your needs, determined by you and your therapist as the approach for your progress and recovery. Interventions and focus areas in therapy are tailored to align with your objectives and support you in moving confidently.
Take the First Step Toward Peace
If you're struggling with anxiety, know that help is available, and it's okay to seek it. At Kona Counseling, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, develop effective coping strategies, and embark on recovery.
Remember, anxiety doesn't have to control your life. With the right support, you can learn to manage your stress and anxiety and reclaim your peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a calmer, more balanced life.
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