In today’s stressful and ever-changing world, anxiety is becoming increasingly prevalent. But what exactly is anxiety, and why does it seem to be affecting so many of us? Let’s break it down, drawing insights from Dr. Duncan Rodseth, a psychiatrist from Johannesburg, to help you understand and manage this common challenge.

Stress vs. anxiety

We often use “stress” and “anxiety” interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Dr. Rodseth explains that stress is a normal response to challenging situations, while anxiety, particularly an anxiety disorder, is a more persistent and disruptive condition. Think of it this way: stress is a reaction to a specific trigger, like a looming deadline or a family crisis, while anxiety is a more generalised feeling of worry and unease that can linger even when the trigger is gone.

“Feeling anxious about things is normal because it’s a kind of protective mechanism,” says Dr. Rodseth. “But ongoing stresses which go beyond a point where you’re not managing it, can lead to anxiety disorders.”

Recognising the symptoms

Anxiety manifests in both mental and physical ways. Mentally, you might experience:

  • Excessive worry: Constant, intrusive thoughts that are difficult to control.
  • Catastrophising: Imagining worst-case scenarios and dwelling on negative possibilities.
  • Difficulty concentrating: Feeling scattered and unable to focus.

Physically, anxiety can present as:

  • Disturbed sleep: Trouble falling or staying asleep or waking up frequently.
  • Muscle tension: Feeling tight and tense, especially in the neck and shoulders.
  • Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure: Experiencing palpitations or feeling your heart racing.
  • Gastrointestinal issues: Such as irritable bowel syndrome or stomach cramps.
  • Breathlessness and dizziness: Feeling short of breath or lightheaded.
  • Headaches: Frequent or persistent headaches.
  • Decreased libido: A reduction in sexual desire.

Why are some people more prone to anxiety?

Several factors can increase your susceptibility to anxiety. Dr. Rodseth points to:

  • Family history: Anxiety disorders often run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
  • Temperament: Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism or a reliance on external validation, can make you more vulnerable.
  • Negative comparisons: Comparing yourself unfavourably to others.

The impact on your life

“Anxiety can significantly affect your personal and professional life. Initially, it might drive you to work harder, but eventually, it can lead to burnout, absenteeism, and a decline in productivity,” Dr Rodseth warns.

“Anxiety often drives people initially,” he notes, “but ultimately it starts to erode them.”

Strategies for mitigating anxiety

While external factors can contribute to anxiety, there are steps you can take to manage it:

  • Regular exercise: Physical activity, like long walks, can help reduce stress and improve mood.
  • Taking breaks: Prioritise regular leave and time off to recharge.
  • Social integration: Engage in activities outside of work, such as hobbies or group activities.
  • Effective time management: Set realistic deadlines and avoid overcommitting.
  • Delegation: Learn to delegate tasks and trust others to complete them.
  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help calm the mind and body.

The role of employers

According to Dr Rodseth, employers also play a crucial role in creating a supportive work environment by:

  • Promoting work-life balance: Encourage employees to take breaks and prioritise their well-being.
  • Providing opportunities for recreation: Organise team activities or recreational days.
  • Recognising and addressing signs of burnout: Managers should ensure staff are not overworked and manage staffing levels accordingly.
  • Mentoring programmes: Providing support and guidance to employees.
  • Open communication: Creating a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns.

When to seek professional help

It’s important to recognise when anxiety is becoming debilitating. Dr. Rodseth advises seeking professional help when it starts to interfere with your relationships, health, or ability to cope with daily life.

“It is not right to recognise it only when you are getting towards the stage where there’s a huge crash. I think it’s important to deal with it earlier rather than later.”

Options for support include psychologists, psychiatrists, coaches, and community groups.

“Anxiety is not a weakness. It’s a common condition that can be managed with the right tools and support. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and implementing effective coping strategies, people can take control of their anxiety and live a more fulfilling life,” Dr Rodseth concludes.

If you are struggling with anxiety, get in touch with LifeAssist. Their accredited coaches and professionals are there to help.