CATHARSIS

In the current scenario, I am mostly dealing with cases of anxiety often misunderstood as depression. Considering the uprising issue, CATHARSIS would like to focus on the symptoms and remedies to overcome anxiety.

Understanding Anxiety: Know the Signs

In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, we often experience overwhelming emotions due to academic pressure, social expectations, and personal challenges. One of the most common emotional responses in such situations is anxiety. While feeling anxious occasionally is normal, persistent anxiety can affect your well-being and performance.

But how do you know if what you’re feeling is anxiety?

Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety doesn’t always show up as worry alone. It often presents itself through physical symptoms, which many people overlook. Here are some of the common signs that may indicate you’re experiencing anxiety:

1. Tense Shoulders
   Constantly tight or stiff shoulders can be a physical manifestation of stress and anxiety.
2. Stuttering or Stammering
   Anxiety can affect speech, making it harder to speak clearly or confidently in certain situations.
3. Sweaty Palms
   Excessive sweating, especially in the hands, is a common stress response.
4. Constant Urination or Diarrhea
   The body’s digestive system often reacts strongly to anxiety, leading to frequent trips to the washroom.
5. Nervous or Upset Stomach
   You may feel butterflies in your stomach or even nausea without a clear cause.
6. Rapid Breathing
   Breathing harder or faster than usual, even when you’re not physically active, is a classic sign of anxiety.
7. Back Pain
   Chronic tension can build up in your muscles, leading to backaches.
8. Increased Heart Rate
   You may notice your heart beating much faster than usual, even at rest.
9. Flushed Face or Feeling Hot
   Anxiety can cause your face to turn red or give you a sudden rush of heat.
10. Headaches
    Persistent or stress-related headaches are common among anxious individuals.
11. Dizziness
    Feeling lightheaded or faint can be linked to anxiety, especially in stressful moments.
12. Shaking or Trembling
    Hands or legs may shake involuntarily as your body responds to heightened emotional stress.

Why This Matters

Recognizing the signs of anxiety is the first step toward managing it. If left unaddressed, it can interfere with studies, friendships, and your overall quality of life. By understanding your body’s signals, you can seek timely support and learn techniques to cope more effectively.

What You Can Do

• Talk to someone you trust—a teacher, parent, or counselor.
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Stay physically active, as exercise helps reduce stress hormones.
• Maintain a healthy routine, including proper sleep and nutrition.
• Avoid self-judgment—anxiety is a natural response and nothing to be ashamed of.

If you feel overwhelmed often, remember you are not alone. Anxiety is manageable, and help is always available. Reach out. Speak up. Take care of yourself. It is possible that your anxiety has reached to a level where it is hindering with your daily chores and job prospects. Never hesitate to express this emotion.