We are living in very tumultuous, trying times. There are horrific tragedies; yet there continue to be
joyous moments too. There are people, who due to circumstances or dispositions, have a tendency to
focus on the negative, disregarding anything positive. This may be due to anxiety, a feeling of
uneasiness, apprehension or dread, which is affecting millions of children and adults in the United
States. Anxiety may be rational or irrational. When the individual cannot control his emotions, the
anxiety is regarded as pathologic, interfering with effectiveness in living and the attainment of desired
goals or satisfactions. Under the umbrella of anxiety is “OCD, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety
Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Illness Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD”.
At the age of ten, Sarah lost her mother to stomach cancer. She was raised by her father, a Holocaust
survivor, who never recovered from the loss of his three children during the war and from the death of
his young wife. In raising his remaining two daughters, he frequently reminded them of what he had
gone through. He tells them that he is unsure of how long he himself will remain alive as he feels his end
is imminent. At a young age, Sarah and her sister were exposed to frightening and bleak conditions.
Sarah is now a young mother of two struggling to make it through the day. She frequently wakes up in
middle of the night drenched in sweat, she has no appetite, and she feels she is ill. Although seen by
numerous doctors and being constantly re-assured that she is healthy, Sara remains fearful that she will
develop and succumb to her mother’s dreaded disease, leaving her young children behind to fend for
themselves. Consumed by this anxiety, her ability to perform her role as a mother is significantly
impacted.
Danny is a 12-year-old intelligent boy who struggles with obsessive thoughts and behaviors. Every time
Danny leaves his room; he feels compelled to wash the light switch and door knob multiple times. His
hands are cracked from all the hand washing. Although he is surrounded by family members who try to
address his actions, all attempts are thus far unsuccessful. Danny has become exhausted and overly
concerned with hygiene; unwholesome habits mar his adolescent exploratory years. COVID has most
probably exacerbated Danny’s already fragile state of mind.
David is 54 years old and is single. One evening after leaving the grocery store, he was accosted by two
masked men. After a severe beating and being robbed of his possessions, David is now suffering from
PTSD. He has become frozen with fear of leaving his home, experiences frequent nightmares, and
flashbacks, and is withdrawn from his family and friends. His untreated trauma is obstructing his ability
to function.
There may be a valid reason for feeling anxious. One may experience rational anxiety in a new job, about
an illness, or moving to a new community. The recent pandemic has caused a great deal of anxiety
amongst the world population. There is uncertainty about the future, about the vaccination, and about
further pandemics. Certain periods of life also generate increased anxiety; adolescence and middle age
are especially anxious times for many. Additionally, those who spend their time alone are more likely to
suffer anxiety than those who spend time with others.
In dealing with a normal quota of anxiety, most people can find healthy avenues. They seek out friends.
They spend time on interesting activities. By listening to and helping others, their minds are diverted
from their personal anxiety. The enjoyment of art, music and literature, especially when shared, is an
antidote to anxiety. Physical activity, preferably with companions and outdoors, is effective in
dissipating anxious moods.
When anxiety is chronic and not traceable to a specific cause, or it interferes with normal activity and
the ability to function on a daily basis, then the sufferer is in need of professional help. Anxiety that
requires attention can often be readily recognized by family, friends, or by a physician. A child may
develop compulsive habits; they may lose their appetite; they may experience difficulty concentrating;
they may develop frequent headaches; they may have an attachment issue. In adults, insomnia,
recurrent migraines, or the development of obsessive habits may be signs of chronic anxiety.
Effective therapeutic modalities beneficial in treating various forms of anxiety include Cognitive
Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, Relaxation Exercises, and Internal Family
Systems. Building a supportive network of resources and copying mechanisms is very effective. Physical
exercise, healthy eating, adequate quality sleep, and proper hygiene all contribute to one’s emotional
well-being. At times, medication might be necessary to help alleviate symptoms. A psychiatrist
specializing in anxiety will make that judgment call.
Whereas previously people felt their prospects of employment and marriage would be jeopardized
should their anxiety be revealed; in present times, the stigma associated with anxiety has been reduced.
People are no longer embarrassed to admit what they are experiencing and are thus getting the
necessary help. Society has come to the realization that just as physical ailments require treatment; so
too, psychological conditions must be professionally and empathetically addressed. People who have
struggled, who have sought appropriate assistance, and who have prevailed, are now leading
meaningful peaceful lives. There is no shame in feeling overwhelmed and anxious. We are all vulnerable.
Only through recognizing and dealing with anxiety, is there the realistic hope to aspire to feel a sense of
calmness, tranquility, optimism, and self-worth.