ANXIETY DISORDER
An anxiety disorder is a type of mental health condition. If you have an anxiety disorder, you may respond to certain things and situations with fear and dread. You may also experience physical signs of anxiety, such as a pounding heart and sweating.
It’s normal to have some anxiety. You may feel anxious or nervous if you have to tackle a problem at work, go to an interview, take a test or make an important decision. And anxiety can even be beneficial. For example, anxiety helps us notice dangerous situations and focuses our attention, so we stay safe.
But an anxiety disorder goes beyond the regular nervousness and slight fear you may feel from time to time. An anxiety disorder happens when:
- Anxiety interferes with your ability to function.
- You often overreact when something triggers your emotions.
- You can’t control your responses to situations.
Anxiety disorders can make it difficult to get through the day. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for anxiety disorders.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Phobias
Separation anxiety
Causes
Anxiety disorders are like other forms of mental illness. They don’t come from personal weakness, character flaws or problems with upbringing. But researchers don’t know exactly what causes anxiety disorders. They suspect a combination of factors plays a role:
- Chemical imbalance: Severe or long-lasting stress can change the chemical balance that controls your mood. Experiencing a lot of stress over a long period can lead to an anxiety disorder.
- Environmental factors: Experiencing a trauma might trigger an anxiety disorder, especially in someone who has inherited a higher risk to start.
- Heredity: Anxiety disorders tend to run in families. You may inherit them from one or both parents, like eye color.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder you have. General symptoms of an anxiety disorder include:
Symtoms:
Physical symptoms:
- Cold or sweaty hands.
- Dry mouth.
- Heart palpitations.
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.
- Muscle tension.
- Shortness of breath.
Mental symptoms:
- Feeling panic, fear and uneasiness.
- Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences.
- Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts.
Behavioral symptoms:
- Inability to be still and calm.
- Ritualistic behaviors, such as washing hands repeatedly.
- Trouble sleeping.
Wild Horse:
Symbolically the Wild Horse represents overcoming obstacles, to live the true essence of your life, and strength. The wild horse has a motivation and power to overcome any obstacle it overcomes. When dealing with Anxiety the wild horse will teach you how to balance the emotions you carry and confidence to ride through life.
1. Species and Breeds: Horses belong to the species Equus ferus caballus. There are over 300 different breeds of horses, each with its own unique characteristics.
2. Lifespan: The average lifespan of a horse is around 25 to 30 years. However, some horses have been known to live well into their 40s.
3. Communication: Horses communicate with each other through a combination of vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions. They use their ears, eyes, and nostrils to express their emotions.
4. Teeth: Horses have a unique dental structure that continually grows throughout their lives. Regular dental care is essential for their well-being.
5. Sleeping Pattern: Horses only sleep for about 3 to 4 hours a day. They often take short naps while standing, and they have a specialized locking mechanism in their legs that allows them to do so without collapsing.
6. Speed: Horses are known for their speed. The fastest recorded speed of a horse was around 55 miles per hour (88.5 km/h). Thoroughbred horses are often used in racing due to their impressive speed and agility.
7. Diet: Horses are herbivores with a unique digestive system. They have a small stomach for their size and require a consistent supply of forage, such as grass or hay, to maintain a healthy digestive process.
8. Memory: Horses have excellent memories. They can remember past training experiences and can also recognize people they have interacted with before.
9. Emotional Intelligence: Horses are known for their emotional intelligence. They can sense and respond to the emotions of humans and other animals, making them valuable companions and therapy animals.
10. Social Animals: Horses are social animals that thrive on companionship. They often form strong bonds with other horses and can experience stress and loneliness if kept alone for extended periods.