What is Anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric conditions in the community worldwide. In Puerto Rico, they are also the most prevalent conditions, and it is estimated that more than 600,000 Puerto Ricans are affected by an anxiety disorder throughout their lives. But what is anxiety? Sometimes, people confuse worries with anxiety.
Worry is what happens when your mind obsesses over negative thoughts or things that could go wrong. Worrying may lead us to solve a problem or take action toward a resolution, which is positive.
Worry is manifested in the mind (Example: the electricity bill arrived), unlike anxiety, which is exhibited physiologically (My stomach hurts, I have a headache, I can’t sleep). Worry is specific while anxiety can be uncertain.
We all worry about everyday situations, which is normal. Anxiety is abnormal. It is characterized by cognitive, physiological, behavioral, and emotional symptoms.

Cognitive Responses to Anxiety
Excessive worrying
Insecurity
Feelings of inferiority
Difficulty making decisions
Confusion
Frequent forgetfulness
All-or-nothing thinking

Physiological Responses to Anxiety
Heat; flushing
Muscle tension
Sweating
Nausea, vomiting, dizziness
Vulnerable immune system
Accelerated heart rate or rapid breathing
Headaches

Behavioral Responses to Anxiety
Trembling
Clumsy movements (prone to accidents or bumps)
Tics
Nervous laughter, yawning
Overeating or decreased appetite
Use/abuse of substances such as alcohol, drugs, or medications
Speaking quickly

Emotional Responses to Anxiety
Fear
Restlessness
Instability
Mood swings
Nervousness
Uncertainty
Tension

It is important to ask ourselves, «Am I feeling worried, or am I manifesting symptoms of anxiety?» Review the symptoms mentioned earlier versus the stressors you are facing according to the roles you have.
If you experience symptoms related to anxiety, reach out to a mental health professional. With the guidance of a professional, you can better understand the condition, recognize your symptoms, and learn strategies to help you gain better control and shift from negative symptoms to positive ones.
References:

«Nervous breakdown and anxiety in Puerto Rico – it’s mental.»
«The difference between worry, stress, and anxiety – The New York Times (nytimes.com).»