From TeenHealthCentre.com

Anxiety/OCD
What Is Anxiety
By
Apr 21, 2004, 14:52

 

Anxiety varies from being a little nervous to feeling practically paralyzed. A little bit of anxiety is good because it makes us alert and gives us a little adrenaline boost to help us perform better. The type of anxiety that we are talking about here is the kind that interferes with your ability to function. Anxiety may be very vague like being afraid that “something bad” will happen or it can be specific. For example, worrying that you might fail the exam before you even take it or begin to study for it is anxiety. Where anxiety becomes a problem is when it interferes with our ability to carry out tasks. For example, refusing to do a speech resulting in an F grade because you were too anxious to go in front of the class.

In many situations in everyday life, it is appropriate and reasonable to react with some anxiety (taking an exam or public speaking). It is when that fear interferes with your ability to perform an activity that there may be a problem. Anxiety problems can be distinguished from everyday anxiety in that it is:

  1. Greater in intensity (e.g., panic attacks).

  2. Lasts longer (anxiety that persists for months after stressful event has passed).

  3. Can lead to phobias that interfere with your life.

 These physical reactions and thoughts can often effect your ability to act, express yourself, or deal with certain everyday situations.

Bodily reactions
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Muscle tension 
  • Nauseous
  • Dry mouth
  • Sweating
  • Stomach ache
  • Shallow breathing
  • Dizziness
Thoughts
  • I’m going to die
  • Everyone will laugh
  • Everyone will think I am stupid
  • I’m going crazy

Feelings

  • Fear
  • Apprehension
  • Uneasiness

For help with anxiety contact 
the Teen Health Centre at (519) 253-8481
and ask to speak to a counsellor

 


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