Anxiety is a shifty thing. One minute, you’re the life of the party and the next you are crying and in utter panic, unable to breath. It’s scary because it’s seemingly random and uncontrollable— like narcolepsy, or a tornado.
If you do suffer from anxiety, you’re in the same enormous boat as 18% of the U.S. population aged 18 and older. Anxiety disorders are the most common disorders, affecting over 40 million adults yearly. And while they are highly treatable, less than 40% of those suffering actually get the help they need.
And if you really want something to relate to, you need to read Brittany Nichole Morefield’s Facebook post on the subject. It has garnered over 11,000 likes and just as many shares in just several days just because so many people could relate.
“Anxiety isn’t just having a hard time catching your breath,” writes Morefield.
“Anxiety is waking up at 3am from a dead sleep because your heart is racing. Anxiety is breaking out in a rash for no reason. Anxiety is stressing over things that may or may not be real. ‘Anxiety is your mood changing, in a matter of minutes. Anxiety is uncontrollable shaking and twitching. Anxiety is crying real and painful tears. Anxiety is nausea. Anxiety is crippling. Anxiety is dark. Anxiety is having to make up excuse after excuse for your behaviour. Anxiety is fear. Anxiety is worry. Anxiety is physically and emotionally draining.”