12 Diagnoses art show
Standing in the middle of an arena, directly in front of another guy that was about 220-225 lbs, equally jittery and tired from two previous matches. This is when I first noticed it.
Looking straight at Kong, trying to take deep breaths, I saw him saying something to bring me back, but I was breathing so rapidly, I couldn’t tell what he was saying anymore. I looked around the auditorium, quickly opening and closing my eyes trying to snap myself out of it. I thought, “I’m studying psychology and know what this is, but how come I can’t just snap out of it.” I was breathing faster and faster, and then the bell rang for the next match. You’re basically trying to choke out or hyperextend the dude’s limb that’s right in front of you. You’ve never met him before, but you have to simulate hurting him now until he hopefully taps, no biggie.
All I remember is being in control (top position, in half-guard) and having plenty of time left to pass into a more dominant position to pressure him some more and waste his energy with my weight on his chest. Pretty simple once you’re in a more dominant position, but I couldn’t. I was stuck both physically and psychologically. I remember looking around and hearing Kong instruct me on how to advance. I was fully in agreement with him but couldn’t get my body to function and follow the idea. I was hyperventilating, getting dizzy, and getting even more frustrated with myself for being “stuck”. This was the last of four jiu-jitsu tournaments I have ever competed in.
I’ve had many encounters with anxiety. I recognize that anxiety likes it when I drink coffee, have too little sleep, or when I have a camera/microphone in front of me. I also know that anxiety likes it when I have to take a big test or when I get pulled over.
I know that I should be fine in all these instances, but it doesn’t mean I am.
Being diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder as an adult gives you the ability to look back into your story with a fine tooth comb and understand why your stomach rumbled more in your high school class when you were nervous. It also reminds you that if you’re anxious about being anxious, you’ll be anxious.
Managing my GAD is giving my family, kids, friends, and community, the best version of myself so I can serve them better.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural and common human emotion. It is a feeling of unease, worry, or fear that something bad might happen. While it is normal to experience anxiety from time to time, too much anxiety can become overwhelming and debilitating.
Causes:
There are various reasons why people may experience anxiety. Some causes may be related to external factors such as job stress, financial difficulties, relationship problems, or trauma. Other causes could be internal factors like genetics, brain chemistry imbalances, or personal temperament.
Symptoms:
When someone is experiencing anxiety, they may have physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, sweaty palms, muscle tension, and difficulty breathing. They may also have psychological symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, or difficulty concentrating.
What are the different types of anxiety?
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
This type of anxiety is characterized by excessive worry and fear about everyday events and activities. People with GAD may struggle to control their worrying, leading to difficulties in daily functioning.
- Panic Disorder
Panic disorder involves sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear or panic attacks. These attacks can be triggered by specific situations or come out of nowhere without any apparent cause.
- Social Anxiety Disorder
Also known as social phobia, this type of anxiety involves an intense fear and avoidance of social situations due to a fear of being judged or embarrassed by others.
- Specific Phobias
Specific phobias are irrational fears of certain objects, situations, or creatures. This type of anxiety can pose little to no danger.
At Soluna Wellness, we offer professional help on how to manage your anxiety.
Our program includes counseling, group counseling, mindfulness guidance, nutrition, and fitness.
We believe connecting the mind and body through creativity, culture, and community, are the foundational pieces on helping you be your best self, with anxiety.
Tips:
Deep breathing and relaxation techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises, like this Breathing Technique or Mindfulness meditation for Anxiety . Especially try this Sleep meditation before sleep!
Stay active: Exercise can help reduce anxiety by releasing endorphins and improving your mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, so try to reduce your intake or avoid them altogether.
Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can worsen anxiety symptoms, so prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment.
Healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, as they can contribute to anxiety.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with others can provide relief and support.
Set realistic goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and prioritize what needs to be done. Setting achievable goals can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.
Practice mindfulness: Stay present in the moment and focus on what you can control. Mindfulness techniques such as mindfulness meditation or yoga can help you manage anxious thoughts and feelings.
