The effects of unrelieved stress can be like a nightmare.

During the second half of fall semester at college, I occasionally commented to my friends about feeling "weird" and unlike my normal self. My body would become cold and faint. My breathing deepened and I would shake uncontrollably. Each time these symptoms occurred, I disregarded the awkward feelings as simply insignificant. My feelings were not trivial, but rather the beginnings of a severe anxiety disorder.

Two days after returning home for Christmas break, on December 22nd, my brother and I were shopping for Christmas presents when the abnormal feelings returned. Initially, the shortness of breath and tingling in my limbs were bearable, but the panic attack I endured a few minutes later warranted a 911 call. At the time I was unaware of the seriousness of my condition, since panic attacks were foreign to me. However, the two ensuing months taught me about the devastating effects of stress, as well as coping techniques used to take charge of causes of the all-to-common problem of anxiety.

I was ignorant about panic attacks and anxiety disorders just two months ago. As I began the slow and frustratingly inconsistent process to recovery, I was forced to consider two main truths that I neglected for quite some time - 1) the base cause of my previous seemingly nonexistent stress, and 2) ways in which I could cope with the issue and regain my normal lifestyle. Through introspection, research, and trial and error my healing process began.

Although I knew little about the effects of anxiety, I now recognize that 40 million American adults and many children suffer from anxiety disorders each year (National Institute of Mental Health). Additionally, one in seventy-five experiences the same condition I have - panic disorder (American Psychological Association). Simply, these statistics and many others forced me to accept the fact that this problem is widespread and not solely my hurdle to overcome. Just as important, my experiences and readings have taught me that this can happen to anyone! This includes lawyers, teachers, football stars, moms, dads, students of all ages, and anyone in between.

As I assume many individuals do, I thought stress was minimal in my life. However, bottled up anxiety is just as devastatingly powerful as that which is apparent. My often perfectionist attitude, stubbornness, and feelings of immortality caused not only anxiety, but also the desire to ignore it. These characteristics describe individuals at risk of experiencing anxiety disorders. Additionally, internalizing problems and neglecting to practice positive self dialogue can lead to high levels of stress.

Whether or not individuals realize their stress levels, many simple actions have helped me and can greatly benefit anyone young to old. Fascinating and powerful results occur when practicing these useful techniques:

· Listen to relaxation tapes one to three times daily;

· Exercise often and consistently, even just a little at a time;

· Maintain a well balanced diet;

· Get enough quality sleep; and

· Practice breathing naturally (inhale for two-one thousand then exhale for two-one thousand, inhale for three seconds then exhale for three seconds, etc....inhale for seven then exhale for seven. Next, count back down to two seconds, making sure to breathe by expanding the stomach).

Additionally, finding a personal outlet has been vital for me to overcome my invisible anxiety. For you, this may include going to the driving range, playing the piano, knitting, reading, or whatever relaxes your mind. As I have learned the difficult way, uneasiness of mind, no matter how nonexistent the restlessness may seem, can impact an individual's life in tremendous ways.

However humbling this process has been for me, more good than bad has arisen from my circumstances. I hope my experiences help you to avoid what I have encountered. For me, the anxiety caused my lifestyle to come tumbling down on the 22nd of December. For you, I wish the best in living a happy and productive life. One step toward this goal is effectively managing stress.

To learn more:

Saturday, March 15 th, 10:30 AM-12 Noon
Mamie Doud Eisenhower Public Library, Eisenhower Room
720-887-2315 or 303-464-7191

info@hlps.org
www.hlps.org

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