George Michael, Royce White and Anxiety: Assessing the ‘A’ Word

George Michael, Royce White and anxiety have taken a spotlight in the headlines recently as both have begun to speak openly about struggles with the disorder. NBA Houston Rockets rookie player Royce White gave an interview with CNN in which he admitted he has an extraordinary fear of flying. Last month Pop sensation George Michael announced that he was canceling scheduled shows in Australia to get professional treatment for extreme fears of performing.

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There are many people who believe that anxiety is some sort of “made-up” condition—that the feelings and symptoms are just a figment of the imagination.

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But it is not. In fact, it is very real.

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FACTS:

• Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric illnesses affecting children and adults. An estimated 40 million adult Americans suffer from anxiety disorders
• Anxiety disorders may develop from a complex set of risk factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events.
• Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only about one-third of those suffering from an anxiety disorder receive treatment.

SOURCE: adaa.org

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Anxiety can be as subtle as a small still voice, or as overwhelming as loud resounding crashes of cymbals. Either way, unless properly managed and treated, anxiety can pack  heavy punch against a person’s peace of mind and overall well-being.

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Anxiety can stop a person dead in their tracks in everything from routine, daily activities to fulfilling responsibilities, to pursuing dreams.

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Anxiety can be overcome with the proper care. In addition to exercise, nutrition, and proper sleep, here are some additional things that can be done to manage it:

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Learn your anxiety triggers. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Anytime you experience feelings of anxiety, write it down. Then, review what you wrote and look for any patterns.

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Distract yourself in small increments to help reduce anxiety. Turn on some music, tune in to your favorite TV/radio show or podcast. Watch some YouTube videos or if time allows, get outdoors into nature. Something as small as a brief conversation with a loved one or friend via phone, text, chat, or Skype can make a big difference.

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Set small daily goals for yourself and place your focus on those rather than thinking of everything at once. Remember that Rome was not built in a day.

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In all things, do the best you can do. At the end of the day, that is truly all that can be done anyway.

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In times when anxiety still proves to be too much to handle after trying the tips above, a support group or professional services may be needed.

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Royce White and George Michael are proving that no one has to surrender life to anxiety disorder. By acknowledging the problem and taking the necessary steps, anxiety can be managed successfully—and even overcome completely.

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For additional resources and assistance with Anxiety Disorder, visit adaa.org.

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.Do you or someone you know struggle with anxiety? Share with me below or tell me about it at:melisasource@yahoo.com.

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