Everyday ways to cope with Anxiety
Anxiety is anticipatory fear; the worry that a fear-inducing situation might arise. For example, we might feel fear upon seeing a snake in our backyard, and this could lead to anxiety about entering our backyard at all. Fear usually diminishes as the threat is neutralised, whereas anxiety is more persistent. Anxiety can also become pervasive, such as when anxiety about snakes in our backyard can lead to anxiety about snakes in all outdoor spaces. newcastle mental health services For many, anxiety can develop into a feeling of imminent and inevitable doom. Anxiety is not always pathological, however. Anxiety has a vital adaptive purpose, which is to motivate us to prepare and plan for possible threats. Our body responds accordingly, mobilising energy to allow us to take actions such as using heavy-duty shoes when outside, and cutting long grass and other hiding spots. When we’re adequately prepared, our anxiety ideally diminishes to a more manageable level. However, if anxiety ...