Anxiety
Started by Chris Allen
1340 points
Chris Allen
Hi folks, I've just completed the Anxiety section of Module 6 and had some thoughts, please let me know your own comments/experiences!
The videos in this section focus heavily on panic attacks. Panic attacks can be a symptom of anxiety for many people with anxiety (and other mental health issues, e.g. phobias), but not everyone. Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues and some people with it may never experience panic attacks. I think it's important to remember that just because someone isn't having to go to A&E presenting with physical symptoms, it doesn't mean that what they're experiencing is less intense or distressing. In my opinion (not a medical professional FYI!) the list of potential symptoms at the start of the Anxiety section is the most useful thing – someone experiencing anxiety can be experiencing worry, distressing thoughts, muscle tension, fidgetiness, etc. and not necessarily show much of this outwardly. Sometimes it takes asking someone how they're doing and having an open and honest conversation to realise that a colleague/friend is experiencing anxiety.
1340 points
Chris Allen
Hi folks, I've just completed the Anxiety section of Module 6 and had some thoughts, please let me know your own comments/experiences!
The videos in this section focus heavily on panic attacks. Panic attacks can be a symptom of anxiety for many people with anxiety (and other mental health issues, e.g. phobias), but not everyone. Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues and some people with it may never experience panic attacks. I think it's important to remember that just because someone isn't having to go to A&E presenting with physical symptoms, it doesn't mean that what they're experiencing is less intense or distressing. In my opinion (not a medical professional FYI!) the list of potential symptoms at the start of the Anxiety section is the most useful thing – someone experiencing anxiety can be experiencing worry, distressing thoughts, muscle tension, fidgetiness, etc. and not necessarily show much of this outwardly. Sometimes it takes asking someone how they're doing and having an open and honest conversation to realise that a colleague/friend is experiencing anxiety.
12034 points
Catherine Eadie
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on the Anxiety section of Module 6 @chris-allen . Your insights are incredibly valuable, and I really appreciate you taking the time to start this conversation.
You're absolutely right. Anxiety manifests in various ways, and not everyone with anxiety experiences panic attacks. It's crucial to acknowledge the broad spectrum of symptoms that anxiety can encompass. As you pointed out, symptoms like worry, muscle tension, and restlessness are just as significant, even if they're less visible.
Your emphasis on the importance of open and honest conversations is spot on. Sometimes, simply asking someone how they're doing can be a significant step in understanding and supporting their mental health journey. It's these kinds of discussions that can really make a difference in the workplace and beyond.
I'm keen to hear from others too. What has been your experience with anxiety, either personally or in supporting others? Let's keep this conversation going and continue to learn from each other.
We're also always interested in hearing about any videos that individuals come across that they think would be useful. We attempted to keep them as UK-specific as possible, so they may focus on a specific feature of a condition.
Catherine