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Feeling nervous, upset, scared?
Here's help from Renay Carroll, M.A., LPC, NCC
Professional Counselor in Oneonta, Alabama and western Cullman, Alabama
The nervous, upset, or scared feeling you may be feeling about going to college or sending a child away from home to continue his or her education may not be your usual stress.
You may be experiencing what many people feel in times of uncertainty - panic or terror, dread, difficulty sleeping, poor appetite, or inability to focus and concentrate. While these symptoms can underlie many illnesses, they can also be attributed to anxiety.
Anxiety is nonspecific fear. It may range from mild fear to severe fear to fear that impairs functioning. Some people feel they could handle their anxiety if they knew what caused it. This can cause them to become more anxious and worried, contributing to the anxiety and causing a cycle.
Anxiety disorders can develop from untreated or severe anxiety. Separation anxiety is often seen in children during family stress. Treat symptoms of mild anxiety or full blown fear:
- Live life one day at a time.
- Exercise. Avoid missing meals or overeating.
- Play. Learn to relax.
- Connect with other people. Have an extended family gathering, call a friend, and talk to others.
- Stay busy but not "pushed." Clean the house, paint the garage, or plant a garden.
- Change your routine. Be flexible. Seek a balance between highs and lows.
- Pray. Remind yourself that God is in control.
- Protect your privacy, listen to music, and calm yourself down.
- Practice deep breathing. Breathe slowly, counting to 10 when you feel angry.
- Self talk. Don't let yourself think negative thoughts.
Some Signs, Symptoms of Anxiety:
- Terror
- Heart races or skips
- Chest pains
- Dizziness, Sweating, Hot or cold flashes
- Trembling or shaking
- Fear of dying
- Anger
- Fear of going crazy
- Ringing in the ears
- Head "swimming"
For confidential help, contact Pathways Professional Counseling, a family ministry of Alabama Baptist Children's Homes. A full list of locations and phone numbers is at www.pathwaysprofessional.com.
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