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Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting nearly one in five American adults each year. Symptoms generally do not go away and they can get worse over time. 

For college students, especially freshmen, anxiety can be brought on by many things, including the rigors of an increased academic workload and concerns about not fitting in. Anxiety can negatively affect relationships and interfere with daily activities such as schoolwork, job performance and other responsibilities. Anxiety disorders can also increase the risk for other medical issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, substance use and depression.

Types of anxiety disorders include:

• Panic disorder
• Phobia-related disorders
• Generalized anxiety disorder

General risk factors can include:

• Shyness or behavioral inhibition in childhood
• Exposure to stressful and negative events
• A family history of anxiety or other mental illnesses

Everyone faces anxiety. Here are some strategies you can take to address anxiety in a minute or less.

1. Five-Count Breath: Inhale slowly and fully for a count of five. Next, hold your breath for a count of five, counting at the same pace. Finally, begin to exhale slowly and fully for a count of five.
2. Anchor Into the Present Through 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: Find five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell and one thing you can taste.
3. Mindful Visualization: Close your eyes and focus on your breath for three full cycles. Any thoughts that come in during this time, just imagine them as a cloud in the sky and let them pass by. Now imagine something that brings you joy or gratitude in your life. Focus on that while you breathe for one full minute. Now open your eyes and imagine the anxiety has floated away.

Treatment is available

There are many ways to treat anxiety, including psychotherapy and medication, or a combination of both. Talk with your doctor to decide what treatment is best for you.

Schedule a no-cost assessment today by calling 806-354-1810. No referral is needed, and anyone may call for assistance. We are here 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

1501 S. Coulter

Amarillo, TX 79106

(806) 354-1810

nwthsbehavioralhealth.com

Sources: National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, and Anxiety and Depression Association of America

Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Northwest Texas Healthcare System. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.