Anxiety Be Controlled by the Power of Words?

 Anxiety disorder is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting approximately 40 million American adults, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). For people diagnosed with anxiety, constant worry and fear become an integral part of everyday life. Such people experience anxiety every now and then, even though they know it can interfere with their ability to lead a normal life.


If left untreated, anxiety disorders can lead to several life-threatening conditions such as addiction to illegal substances, suicidal thoughts, and sometimes even death. Fortunately, there are a number of effective treatment options available to help an individual overcome anxiety and lead a normal life.


Today, a variety of treatment options such as medication, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, etc. are used to effectively alleviate the debilitating symptoms associated with anxiety. One of the most effective ways to deal with excessive anxiety is to strengthen your self-confidence and reorient yourself in any situation, even though you experience serious setbacks in life. Using positive words can play a big role in reducing an individual's anxiety level.


Positive words can help reduce anxiety symptoms


Using negative and hostile words can increase activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain known to control fight-or-flight responses. Some common symptoms of such increased activity are increased heart rate, adrenaline, shaking hands, and an unconsciously heightened voice. The sudden appearance of these symptoms, along with a rapid increase in impulses, means that the body is physically ready to fight and allow the brain to think logically.


Using positive words or engaging in positive self-talk can go a long way in controlling recurring anxiety attacks. This happens because the mind tends to adapt to the words, whether negative or positive, that one utters. Likewise, when a person excels at saying positive things to themselves or others, they begin to affect the mind in a positive way.


Using technical jargon can increase anxiety


A 2012 National Institutes of Health (NIH) study revealed that the use of technical jargon by surgical staff could increase anxiety levels in individuals recovering from surgery.


As part of the study, 70 patients undergoing plastic surgery in day care under local anesthesia were presented with a questionnaire consisting of a five-point numerical scale for measuring anxiety. The use of technical jargon by surgical staff was found to increase anxiety levels in patients who were awake for surgery.


It is possible to lead a life without anxiety


It's okay to feel anxious. But the problem arises when a person becomes overly anxious and feels overly stressed about even the smallest things. So taking better control of your life can be a great way to feel positive and overcome anxiety. Anxiety recovery is also a great way to focus on personal and professional growth.


People suffering from anxiety or any other mental disorder tend to underestimate themselves as incapable of living a normal life. With the support and love of loved ones, they can be reminded that their illness is treatable. It is important to remain alert to the symptoms of the disorder so that timely help can be provided.

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