How to cope with anxiety | Olivia Remes | TEDxUHasselt

Summary

This script delves into the common yet often misunderstood experience of anxiety disorders, affecting one in 14 people globally. It distinguishes between normal anxiety and disorders, highlighting the latter's severe impacts on life. The speaker emphasizes the importance of coping resources like feeling in control, self-forgiveness, and having a life purpose to mitigate anxiety. The script encourages self-empowerment and sharing knowledge to improve mental health, particularly for those unable to afford therapy.

Takeaways

• 🎉 Anxiety is a common mental health issue affecting 1 in 14 people worldwide and costing over 42 billion dollars annually in treatment.
• 😨 Social situations can trigger anxiety, leading to feelings of dissociation and panic, which can result in avoidance behaviors and isolation.
• 🤔 Anxiety disorders are often misunderstood and can be mistaken for nerves or a weakness, rather than a serious condition.
• 👀 The distinction between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder is important, with the latter being excessive and occurring in non-threatening situations.
• 🛑 Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry, restlessness, fear, and difficulty with sleep and concentration.
• 💊 Medication for mental disorders may not always provide long-term relief, and symptoms can recur, necessitating alternative coping strategies.
• 🔄 Coping mechanisms can significantly impact the level of anxiety experienced, and by adjusting these, one can reduce anxiety.
• 🌱 Developing coping resources or skills can be empowering and can help individuals take charge of their anxiety levels.
• 🏆 Feeling in control of one's life is associated with better mental health, and engaging in activities that increase control can help combat anxiety.
• 💭 'Doing it badly' can speed up decision-making and encourage action, reducing the anxiety associated with indecision and perfectionism.
• 🙏 Forgiving oneself for past mistakes and perceived failures can alleviate self-criticism and promote self-compassion.
• 🌟 Having a purpose and meaning in life, and doing things with others in mind, can be a powerful coping mechanism against anxiety.

Q & A

What is the initial feeling described when getting ready for a party in the script?

The initial feeling described is a mix of excitement and nervousness, with a sensation in the stomach like an additional heartbeat, and a cautionary voice holding one back from being too happy.

What are some common social fears mentioned in the script?

Common social fears mentioned include worrying about who to talk to at a party, the possibility of being rejected or thought of as weird, and experiencing an out-of-body sensation during conversations.

How does the script describe the physical sensations of anxiety in crowded places?

The script describes physical sensations such as feeling hot, nauseous, and uneasy in crowded places like on a bus, which can lead to avoidance behaviors and feelings of loneliness and isolation.

What is the prevalence of anxiety disorders worldwide according to the script?

The script states that one in 14 people around the world have an anxiety disorder.

What are some of the serious consequences of anxiety disorders mentioned in the script?

The script mentions that anxiety can lead to depression, school dropout, suicide, difficulty focusing, job instability, and relationship breakdowns.

How does the script differentiate between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder?

Normal anxiety is described as a protective emotion that arises in stressful situations, like facing a bear in the woods. An anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive worry in non-threatening situations and difficulty controlling this worry.

What is the role of coping resources in managing anxiety according to the script?

Coping resources are described as factors that can directly impact the level of anxiety experienced. They can help individuals lower their anxiety and remain healthy even in the face of adversity.

What is the first coping strategy mentioned in the script for dealing with anxiety?

The first coping strategy is feeling in control of one's life, which can be achieved by engaging in experiences that provide a sense of control and by adopting the motto 'do it badly' to overcome indecision.

How does the script suggest one can overcome the fear of starting something new?

The script suggests overcoming the fear of starting something new by adopting the motto 'do it badly,' which encourages taking action without the pressure of perfection.

What is the second coping strategy discussed in the script for reducing anxiety?

The second coping strategy is forgiving oneself for past mistakes and being kinder to oneself, which can lead to greater self-compassion and healing.

Why is having a purpose and meaning in life considered an important coping mechanism for anxiety?

Having a purpose and meaning in life is considered important because it provides a sense of being needed and valued by others, which can improve mental health and help individuals bear difficult times.