We all experience anxiety occasionally while facing an exam, giving an interview, or even making a huge life-changing decision. Anxiety is a part of some people’s day-to-day life. Anxiety affects millions worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to troubles with functioning in everyday life. This article shall focus on shedding light on anxiety, its common modes of treatment, and more.

The signs and symptoms of anxiety

Anxiety can manifest differently in every individual. Some common signs and symptoms help doctors diagnose and treat anxiety, including the following:

• Feeling restless or tense
• Increased heart rate
• Hyperventilation or rapid breathing
• Feeling fatigued or tired
• Trouble concentrating
• Trouble with sleeping
• Experiencing Gastrointestinal troubles
• Experiencing panic attacks or a sense of doom
• Avoiding triggers

The signs and symptoms of anxiety can also vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder. Common anxiety disorders include panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and phobia-related anxiety disorders.

Treating anxiety

There are multiple ways to treat anxiety disorders. Individuals who suffer from anxiety can decide on a treatment mode after discussing it with their doctor.

Here are some of the most common modes of treatment used for anxiety:

1. Psychotherapy
   One of the most common treatment modes for anxiety disorders is psychotherapy. This treatment mode, also known as talk therapy, only works when directed and tailored to meet an individual’s needs. Common examples of psychotherapy are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging intrusive thoughts. Exposure therapy allows the individual to face their fears head-on.
2. Medication
   Medication cannot cure or relieve anxiety altogether, but it can help tackle the signs and symptoms of anxiety that make it difficult to function in day-to-day life. Common classes of medication include anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, and beta-blockers.
3. Support groups
   Individuals who suffer from anxiety can also benefit by joining various support groups. These groups work by helping individuals share their problems and even achievements with others undergoing similar troubles. This mode of treatment is not sufficient when done alone. Individuals should make sure they do this and opt for other treatment methods.

Food and anxiety

When it comes to managing anxiety, treatment must go hand in hand with multiple lifestyle changes, including following a clean and healthy diet. Here are some foods that are known to help ease the symptoms of anxiety in individuals:

1. Fatty fish
   Fatty fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids known to be linked to cognitive functions and an individual’s overall mental health. They also contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) that helps regulate the neurotransmitters, reduce inflammation in the brain, and even promote healthy brain functions.

1. Eggs
   Eggs are a great source of vitamin D and contain tryptophan that helps create serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and behavior in an individual.
2. Dark chocolate
   Research suggests that dark chocolate helps reduce anxiety and stress while improving an individual’s overall mood because chocolate has a high tryptophan content that helps produce neurotransmitters in the brain.
3. Turmeric
   Turmeric, a significant ingredient in Asian countries, contains curcumin. Curcumin reduces anxiety and stress by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.

While certain foods can help ease and reduce the signs and symptoms of anxiety, many of them can worsen and even trigger anxiety. The consumption of such foods should be avoided or limited at best. Try avoiding fruit juice, soda, toast, and other foods and beverages with high sugar content.