When I experience an anxiety attack, it’s not simply a light feeling of unease. Unlike the trivial portrayals you might see in popular media, the onset for me is intense, beginning with my muscles tightening—especially in my chest. My partner can always tell something’s wrong; the look on my face is a clear indicator. “Just breathe,” he insists. But it’s not that easy. My breath becomes erratic, shifting from shallow hitches to frantic gasps, making me feel as if I might collapse, even though deep down, I understand that I’m not in any real danger—this is just an anxiety attack.
At times, it feels as if I’m a trapped animal clawing to escape my own body. The severity of these attacks has led us to consider options like a service dog, but thankfully, with the right medication, I’ve gained better control. These episodes drain my energy so much that I often need to rest afterward.
I’ve been formally diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) by a reputable psychiatrist. Before starting medication, even the simple act of getting dressed could trigger a meltdown. I felt isolated, convinced that my friends were judging me, which made social interactions extraordinarily difficult. Despite achieving top grades, I struggled immensely in school, plagued by a sense of inadequacy. My anxiety has followed me since the age of eight. While GAD manifests differently for each individual, my experiences are not uncommon.
This is why I feel frustrated when the term “anxiety” is carelessly tossed around in our culture. A recent article in the UK’s Metro pointed out that the constant discussions surrounding anxiety and depression can gaslight those who genuinely suffer from these conditions. As Vice’s Tonic column articulates, the casual use of anxiety-related terms undermines the serious nature of what those truly suffering endure.
Most people, when they mention feeling anxious, are referring to the typical stresses of life—managing bills, dealing with unruly children, or the chaos of a disorganized home. “Anxiety itself is a natural human experience,” explains Dr. Lila Martinez, a psychiatry director at a leading treatment center. “The distinction lies in when everyday worries overshadow your life and spiral into something unmanageable.”
For instance, the struggle to choose an outfit can lead to a breakdown, with a bedroom cluttered with discarded clothes and tears streaming down my face. Or I might obsess over a minor car accident, worrying that it could have dire consequences. These thoughts can escalate to the point where I fear losing my spouse or ruining my children’s lives. I even plan for catastrophic events, like nuclear war, waking up in terror from panic attacks centered around these thoughts.
As 28-year-old Sarah shared with Metro, “There’s a significant difference between feeling anxious and experiencing anxiety. Temporary stresses are manageable, but living with anxiety is like battling a physical illness that can take years to overcome. It’s an all-consuming affliction that can devastate lives if not addressed properly.” This resonates deeply with my own experiences.
It’s crucial for us to use language thoughtfully, distinguishing between “worry” and “anxiety.” Just being distressed about something doesn’t automatically equate to a mental health condition. While anxiety exists on a spectrum, my GAD is so intense that I often rely on medications just to get out of bed each morning—something I never anticipated needing. Still, I experience typical nervousness—concerns about my dog’s performance in training or whether my kids are making friends. These are normal, everyday worries.
Most concerns fall into the realm of being “normal,” unless they become overwhelming and debilitating. It’s essential to recognize this difference, as failing to do so can diminish the genuine struggles faced by individuals with GAD, social anxiety disorder, or OCD. It can also hinder those in need of a proper diagnosis and support.
In summary, while anxiety is a common human experience, it’s vital to acknowledge the profound difference between everyday worries and the debilitating nature of anxiety disorders. By doing so, we can foster a better understanding of mental health and support those who truly need help. If you’re seeking more information on this topic, resources like this article offer valuable insights, and the WHO provides excellent information related to pregnancy and mental well-being.