Anxiety disorder, also known as anxiety neurosis, is the most common type within the broader category of neurotic disorders, characterized primarily by experiences of anxiety. It manifests in two forms: chronic anxiety (generalized anxiety) and acute anxiety attacks (panic disorder).
Individuals with anxiety suffer from prolonged mental tension, feeling fearful and uneasy about their surroundings, making it difficult to relax. This is often accompanied by sleep disturbances such as insomnia, frequent waking, and nightmares.For insomnia, self-regulation through Morita therapy can be employed. When unable to sleep, simply close your eyes and let your mind wander freely until sleep overtakes you. Persisting with this approach for about a week may alleviate symptoms. Below, we break down the symptoms of anxiety—let's explore them together!
Irritability
Frequently feeling annoyed over minor matters, experiencing emotional outbursts, or even lashing out without cause, coupled with an inability to tolerate anything, may indicate anxiety. Seeking support from a friend to talk things through is advisable at this stage.
Excessive Worry. Persistent, unfounded fears about serious illnesses, partner infidelity, theft, or accidents involving loved ones. This leads to restlessness, mental agitation, pacing, and difficulty concentrating. Self-cognitive therapy can help. Ask yourself: "Has this actually happened? Since it hasn't, why worry about something that hasn't occurred?"
Insomnia
Chronic anxiety leads to persistent mental tension, fear of surroundings, and difficulty relaxing. This often accompanies sleep disturbances like insomnia, frequent waking, or nightmares. For insomnia, try Morita therapy for self-regulation: when unable to sleep, close your eyes and let your mind wander freely until drowsiness sets in. Symptoms may ease after about a week of consistent practice.
Physical Tension
Anxious individuals often exhibit facial tension, furrowed brows, and a tense expression. They may also experience chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, and sweaty palms. This physical tension can in turn intensify anxiety. Without timely intervention, it often creates a vicious cycle.
Repeated Vomiting and Fainting
Acute anxiety attacks often involve panic accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fainting. These symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from physical illnesses, sometimes leading to misdiagnoses in emergency rooms, such as myocardial infarction. If such symptoms recur without evidence of physical disease, consider the possibility of anxiety disorder and seek medical attention promptly.