How does anxiety affect the mind and body?
Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It is the subjectively unpleasant feelings of dread over anticipated events. Anxiety is not the same as fear, which is a response to a real or perceived immediate threat, whereas anxiety involves the expectation of future threats. Anxiety is a feeling of fear, worry, and unease that can be mild or severe. It can be short-term or chronic and affect how you feel or act.
Anxiety disorders are highly treatable but require long-term management for maximum effectiveness. Many people require more than one therapy to control their anxiety disorder. Medication and psychotherapy (including cognitive behavioral therapy) may be recommended to help you handle your anxiety better.
Anxiety affects your health in many ways:
- It can make you tired and irritable
- It can cause muscle tension and headaches
- It may cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps
- It can make it hard for you to sleep well at night
Should I consider clinical treatment for Anxiety?
Yes, you should consider it. Anxiety is often a symptom of something else that is going on in the body. Anxiety can be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, so getting evaluated by a medical professional to rule out any medical causes for your anxiety is essential.
You should also consider seeing a therapist who has experience treating anxiety disorders. They can help you identify your triggers, learn to manage them, and provide support while learning new skills and coping strategies to reduce your anxiety. You might also find it helpful to attend an anxiety support group where you can share experiences with others experiencing similar issues.
Is kava effective for anxiety?
Kava is one of the most popular herbal remedies for anxiety. It's a member of the pepper family, and it grows in Pacific Islands, including Hawai'i.
Several different types of kava root are available to purchase online or in health food stores. The most common type is called 'awa (pronounced ah-wah) and often comes from Vanuatu. Other types include malolo, which is stronger than awa and has a bitter taste; 'ele'ele, which has a sweet taste; and 'akai'a, which is considered the strongest variety.
It's also possible to buy kava supplements that contain no actual kava root but use its active ingredient, called kavalactones, as an ingredient in their formulas.
Kavalactones are chemical compounds that may have some benefits for anxiety relief. Studies suggest they can reduce anxiety symptoms by affecting the central nervous system and the brain. Kavalactones may also help you sleep better after taking them at night before bedtime because they're sedating agents that slow down brain activity, so you feel relaxed and sleepy faster than normal.