The Truth About Anxiety
Anxiety is normal. I know, that sounds odd coming from a guy who specializes in therapy and treatment for anxiety. But anxiety is a common emotional response to situations that require us to pay attention to something, prepare for something, or resolve something. Anxiety might feel like fear, worry, nervousness, or unease. Most of us think anxiety is a negative experience because it can cause discomfort. But it can actually be a good thing that is helpful for us.
Anxiety helps you become more aware of your surroundings and potential dangers. When you experience anxiety, your brain triggers a fight-or-flight response, which prepares you to respond to potential harm or threats. This heightened awareness can help you identify and avoid possible risks in the environment. Anxiety makes you more alert and vigilant. Nervousness in new situations helps to improve focus so that you are more aware of what is going on around you.
Anxiety can also increase motivation by providing a sense of urgency or a need to do something. When you feel anxious, you may feel a bit of pressure to complete tasks quickly and efficiently, leading to increased productivity and motivation. Anxiety can also boost your performance in some situations. For example, an upcoming job interview or a competition might create a bit of anxiety. As a result, you get ready and prepare for the event. As you prepare, you feel more confident and competent with what needs to be done. A good example is when a student feels nervous about an exam in school. That nervousness reminds you about the need to study and prepare for the exam so that you can get the grade you want.
Sometimes, anxiety can also stimulate creativity by encouraging you to think outside the box. When you feel anxious, your brain may activate the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for problem-solving and creativity. This can lead to innovative solutions and ideas that may not have been possible otherwise. This problem-solving process can help you in your relationships, on our job, and in life in general. In many ways, the better your ability to problem solve various dilemmas, the better chance you have to be successful no matter what life throws at you.
In a nutshell, everyone experiences anxiety nearly every day. Even the guy writing this blog feels anxious and nervous throughout the day. Its okay, its normal. And sometimes my anxiety helps me be a better therapist, a better father, and a better husband. And a little anxiety might help you more than you realize.