Am I Dealing With Angst or Anxiety?
Understanding the Differences Between Angst and Anxiety
Anxiety and angst problems may be challenging to deal with. Understanding the differences between the two and their specific traits and how they emerge in people is helpful for anyone looking for mental health wellness.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a state of concern, trepidation, or uneasiness frequently brought on by an impending event or a situation whose conclusion is unclear. People have an emotional reaction when they feel in danger or endangered. Physical symptoms, such as a racing heartbeat, sweating, shaking, or trouble breathing, are frequently present.
What Is Angst?
Angst is a strong sense of dread or fear that is often unfocused and related to how others are feeling or how the world is generally doing. Anger is a persistent emotional state when people think something horrible is about to happen without apparent cause, unlike worry, which typically has tangible reasons.
Common Causes and Triggers of Angst and Anxiety
While causes of angst and anxiety can vary widely, some common triggers include:
Fear or Surprise: Unexpected events or situations can cause fear and panic, leading to angst or anxiety.
Alcohol Use Disorder: Alcohol use disorder can trigger angst, anxiety, and depression. It can occur when there is an increase in drinking, frequency, or any combination of these. Drinking can change people’s moods and thoughts, leading to feelings of apprehension and worry.
Trust and Comfort: Issues of trusting or comforting can be challenging and lead to feelings of frustration, confusion, and doubt that can become overwhelming.
Connection or Belonging: Experiences of not fitting in socially or feeling part of a group can be difficult and evoke a feeling of not belonging.
Competitiveness or Passion: Angst and anxiety can result if life feels out of control or the passion or drive to do something great is unmet.
Potential Consequences of Unmanaged Angst or Anxiety
Without proper management, angst and anxiety can have far-reaching consequences on physical and mental health, work performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. People with unmanaged anxiety can have difficulty concentrating, sleeping, socializing, or simply enjoying daily activities. These issues can lead to physical problems such as chronic fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues.
Untreated mental health conditions can result in unnecessary disability, unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, inappropriate incarceration, thoughts of suicide, and poor quality of life.
Practical Strategies for Managing Angst or Anxiety
There are several practical strategies and techniques individuals can use to manage angst and anxiety. These include:
Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga help to reduce stress and increase awareness of thoughts and emotions.
Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques: Cognitive-Behavioral techniques can help to manage anxious thoughts, such as questioning assumptions or reframing negative thoughts.
Self-Care Activities: Self-care activities such as massage, journaling, listening to music, or spending time in nature can help to reduce stress and cultivate a sense of calm.
Physical Activities: Physical activities such as walking, running, swimming, or biking can help to reduce stress, ease tension, and improve mental clarity.
Nutritional Habits: Eating nutritious, balanced meals and avoiding unhealthy foods and drinks can help to regulate moods and energy levels.
Seeking Professional Help
While there are several practical strategies individuals can use to manage angst or anxiety, there may be times when professional help is needed. Therapy options like individual counseling, group therapy, or medication management can help to identify and manage symptoms. If you or someone you know is struggling with clinically significant levels of anxiety, please reach out for help.
