Tag: anxiety

Feeling Anxious

With so many concerning things going on in the world today–not to mention the upcoming US elections–a lot of people are feeling anxious. Older adults–although we may have wisdom and perspective–are not immune to anxiety. In fact, it is the #1 mental health disorder among adults over the age of 65, and only about 1 in 3 who suffer actually get treatment.

The Cedars-Sinai Blog, lays out some of the main points of anxiety and older adults. Everybody lives with some level of anxiety, but it becomes problematic when it begins to interfere with our regular activities. According to the American Psychiatic Association, “Anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure.” As we age, there are many things that make us anxious: health challenges, loss of loved ones, changes in lifestyle (like after retirement), and concerns about family. Anxiety can be treated; when left untreated, though, it can raise the likelihood of disability, stroke, heart failure, autoimmune and heart diseases, and memory disorders (dementia).

According to Cedars-Sinai, anxiety manifests itself in many ways such as avoiding socializing, loss of appetite, insomnia, restlessness, and intrusive thoughts. In severe cases, anxiety can devolve into a panic attack which can lead to shortness of breath, feeling like choking, chest pains, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, numbness, and chills.

If you or a loved one may be suffering from anxiety, it is best to discuss it with a trusted medical professional. There are many treatment options available–and not all of them involve medications. Talk therapy is very helpful. A support system of family and friends can also aid in recovery. There is no need to suffer in silence; in fact, that will usually only make it worse.

The world provides an endless source of anxiety-inducing stimuli. All of us are equipped to face them differently. If you need help, there is no shame in seeking it. Not only is your mental well-being at stake, so is your physical health.

Nothing to Fear but Fear Itself

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt

These words are a paraphrase of remarks made by Franklin Delano Roosevelt at his first presidential inauguration. Those were difficult times, recovering from the Great Depression and with a World War looming on the horizon. One could argue that back then there was a lot to actually fear.

Aside from how our anxieties affect us at work, school and in relationships, I regularly see how fear plays an outsized role in the realm of physical fitness.

I have worked with many clients with a variety of fears: fear of doing a certain exercise, fear of entering in a 5K, fear of looking foolish in the gym, fear of disappointing their trainer, etc. This can often be paralyzing. It can prevent us from engaging in the fitness activities that can help us to avoid the kinds of injuries and illnesses that we should legitimately fear.

I know that every time I have competed in a race (obstacle course, 1/2 marathon or triathlon), my overwhelming emotion beforehand is fear. I am afraid that I won’t finish the race, or that I might hurt myself, or that I will do so poorly that I will be a disappointment to myself or others. It is irrational since none of these have ever happened, but still it occurs.

As someone who has dealt with anxiety and even panic attacks, I know that this fear can prevent us from living a life of adventure, fulfillment and even love. There comes a time, though, when we have to take an informed and prepared leap of faith. I wouldn’t say that a person should conquer their fear of running a 5K by waking up one morning to do one; it requires preparation and training. The process of getting ready can help give us the confidence to overcome our anxieties.

We should be aware of the crippling role that fear can play in our lives. We must remind ourselves of how strong and courageous and deserving of good things we are. We must also work hard to reach our goals. Accept the fear. Stare it down…and then set it aside. The only thing we have to fear…is truly fear itself.