Suffer from anxiety? You’re not alone. In the USA about one-third of the population will experience an anxiety disorder at some point, making it one of the most common mental health diagnoses currently.
The obvious next question then is, why? What’s causing this anxious uptick, and what—if anything—can be done about it?
Let’s take a look.
Digital Distractions
The smartphone arrived with a cacophony of dings, pings, and instant gratification, and things have never been the same.
This little device increases anxiety through generating a sense of urgency. It instills fear of missing out, provides constant fodder for comparison, and always serves as a great distraction.
It keeps people up past their bedtime, interferes with sleep, and for some, it’s the first thing they check each morning.
Smartphone overuse keeps people in a perpetual state of constantly taking information in. Many no longer have time in their day to just think, daydream, or check in with themselves because the urge to use phones as a distraction is all too powerful.
If you notice you’re constantly reaching for your phone, are easily caught up in mindless scrolling, or feel as though it’s somehow fueling your anxiousness, here are some tips that may help:
- Turn off unnecessary notification bells
- Be proactive (not passive!) every time you use your phone
- Consider a “digital detox”
- Download analytics that log your screen time
Take breaks from your phone if you can, and only reach for it when you need something specific. Try not to use it as a distraction.
Hectic Lives
Modern life is so busy that it’s hard to catch your breath. There’s a lot going on, and a lot of uncertainty.
Most people work indoors and don’t get enough outdoor time or movement which is so important to both physical and mental well-being. That, plus the constant juggling or feeling overburdened by responsibility takes a toll.
One of the main ways this overstimulation and go-go-go can manifest is through anxiety.
If you feel like this is one of the reasons why you feel anxious, here are some things you can try:
- Audit your schedule and see if there’s anything you can let go of
- Go on a short walk during your lunch hour or find some other time to get outdoors
- Swap out a shower for a hot bubble bath
- Take a few 5-minute increments in your day to just breathe and do a mindful body scan
- Do a quick 10-minute stretching session or workout to ground yourself
We spend so much time in our heads worrying, stressing, and trying to get it all done. Use little pockets of time to connect with your body, your breath, and find peace in the present moment.
Less Stigma
Because there’s way less stigma surrounding mental health, people don’t have to worry as much about hiding how they feel.
As society begins to understand the importance of mental health, more and more are opening up about their struggles. More people are receiving a proper diagnosis, and getting the support they need.
If you are experiencing anxiety and have not yet received a diagnosis or started treatment, please, consider therapy.
At the Relationship Therapy Center, we have helped so many people work through their anxiety and restore feelings of calm and centeredness.
‘Anxiety’ Being Used to Describe Other Feelings
Clinically, “anxiety” is an umbrella term for panic disorder, specific phobias, and more.
In a non-clinical setting, many people who have never been officially diagnosed with anxiety may use it as a way to describe anxiety-like feelings they’re experiencing, such as nervousness or stress.
Using “anxiety” to describe feelings contributes to it being a commonly used word, and gives off the impression that a lot of people—even those without a diagnosis—believe they’re experiencing it.
If you’re unusually stressed or anxious, seeing a therapist is one of the best ways to see if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis and feel better, even if what you’re currently experiencing does not qualify as an “official” anxiety diagnosis.
The Pandemic & Other Uncertainties
From social isolation to worries about health and finances, Covid-19 played a big role in increasing anxiety.
It opened people’s eyes to the reality that nothing is really certain and life as we know it can change in an instant.
Politics, climate change, and economic factors are other sources that cause people to worry, and if left unchecked, prolonged states of distress brought on by factors beyond our control can become fuel for anxiety. Truly, there’s nothing anxiety loves more than rolling around in the muck and mire of uncertainty!
Life is quite bumpy at times and can throw a lot our way—often all at once.
If you’re struggling, the best thing you can do is get help.
At the Relationship Therapy Center, we see patients with anxiety, those who’ve experienced trauma, and people who generally just want to feel better.
If you’re struggling, call us. We’d love to hear from you and share more about how we can help.
Begin Anxiety Treatment in Roseville, CA, Fair Oaks, CA, or Online in California:
If you are ready to find relief from your anxiety, we can help. The therapists at the Relationship Therapy Center provide anxiety treatment to help teens and adults find happiness and live without the pain of anxiety. To begin therapy at our Sacramento area locations or online, follow these steps:
- Contact the Relationship Therapy Center and schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to learn more about anxiety treatment.
- Meet with one of our talented therapists.
- Begin anxiety treatment and regain control in your life.
Other Services Offered at The Relationship Therapy Center in California:
In addition to anxiety therapy, Our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Individual therapy services include, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones heal and grow.