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f eeling of fear, worry and uneasiness, o ften unfocused and generalised , an over-reaction to a situation that is subjectively scary, accompanied by muscular tension, restlessness, fatigue, problems with concentration. Some quotes.
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feeling of fear, worry and uneasiness, • often unfocused and generalised, • an over-reaction to a situation that is subjectively scary, • accompanied by muscular tension, restlessness, fatigue, problems with concentration.
Some quotes “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” – Nelson Mandela “In my life I have never been afraid of anything.” – Jacob Zuma
“Anxiety stimulates us, it keeps us alive, it keeps us sensitive to each other and in general it gives a great deal of zest to a life that otherwise would be dead. Anxiety is the source of all creativity …” Rollo May, The Meaning of Anxiety Rollo May
Personal stories • Mark* (13 yrs of age, Grade 8) • Rachel* (17 yrs of age, Grade 11) • Jonathan T (32 yrs of age) • Brett* (PTSD)
“I was waking up looking at the clock hoping the clock had stopped, or that a pylon had fallen on the field and the game had been cancelled, or the stadium had collapsed – as long as there was no one in it, of course. You end up thinking of all sorts of ways you wouldn't have to go to the ground."
When worried becomes anxious • Everyone gets anxious at times. • We diagnose an anxiety disorder when there is persistent worry etc. that interferes with a person’s ability to function (work and relationships). • Diagnostic criteria
8 tips for managing anxiety • Mindfulness • Acceptance • Slow breathing • Exercise • Get enough sleep • Stay connected • Problem-solve • Speak to a therapist
Advice for parents of anxious kids / teens • Pay attention to their feelings. • Don’t judge or stigmatise. • Stay calm when your child becomes anxious about a situation or event. • Recognize and praise small accomplishments. • Don’t punish mistakes or lack of progress. • Be flexible and try to maintain a normal routine.
Advice for parents cont. • Modify expectations during stressful periods. • Plan for transitions (e.g. allow extra time in the morning). • “Push gently” • Get professional help (psychologist, psychiatrist).
Useful links • South African Depression and Anxiety Group (www.sadag.org) • Anxiety and Depression Association of America (http://www.adaa.org) • Project UROK (www.projecturok.org) • Psych Central (http://psychcentral.com/disorders/anxiety/)