The Canadian Mental Health Association in Saskatchewan recognized anxiety as an anticipated fragment of life.
“Normal, expected anxiety is part of being human. Treatment should look at reducing unhelpful coping strategies and building healthy behaviours that help you better manage anxiety,” a statement from this organization read.
Yet, there are times when this condition has seemed too overwhelming for some. Treatments are available when anxiety seems to have neither a begining or an end, as the internal dread takes over.
Canadian federal government statistics from 2013 reported nearly three million Canadians (11.6 per cent) aged 18 and older were enduring mood and or/anxiety disorders. Of all these reported cases, 27 per cent said their anxiety disorders had effectively uprooted their lives in the previous 12 months.
With the destructive advent of COVID-19, anxiety in Canada and throughout the world has magnified since 2013.
The government recommended sufferers to adopt improved sleeping habits, engage in exercise, meditative practices and develop a care plan.
Self-care is vital for mental health. Professionals exist in clinics and have written piles of words on anxiety and fear, with the intent of helping those who are agonizing from chronic apprehensions.
Stan Popovich, a Penn State graduate with over 20 years of experience in managing fear, anxiety and depression, has written a book on helping others to manager their inner lives.
He’s appeared on television and has written for publications like Huffington Post.
A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear is a navigation device in the form of a book and is meant to assist those who undergoing anxiety-related problems. The 52-page book is appearing in paperback or as a Kindle Edition.
Popovich’s advice on anxiety isn’t necessarily scientific, but rather intuitive-based. His suggestions on dealing with the anxieties in others are thoughtful and creative.
For example, Popovich offered six ways of assisting others as they cope with anxiety.
In his first point, Popovich said carers should learn and study depression and anxiety through books and other available media with the strategy of informing themselves and educating others.
Popovich emphasized the importance of patience and understanding in second part of his outline. Dealing with depression and anxiety can be challenging. The carer should avoid making hard situations worse. “Do not get into arguments with the person who his having a difficult time with their anxieties,” Popovich advised.
“Talk to the person instead of talking at them,” Popovich said, as he carried on to point three. “It is important not to lecture the person who is struggling with anxiety and depression. Talk to the person about their issues without being rude.”
“Get help,” Popovich recommended in the fourth part of his proposal. “Seek help from a professional who can help your friend or relative with their mental health struggles. A counsellor can give you advice and ideas on how to overcome anxiety, fear and depression.”
Further to this point, Popovich advised sufferers to join mental health supports. He suggested their doctors might know of some appropriate groups to connect with in their communities.
Popovich said the carers should discuss what might happen if people refuse to get help for their fears and anxieties in point five. “Anxiety and depression can make things worse and usually it won’t go away by itself without some kind of treatment.”
Lastly, Popovich said if the carers weren’t able to convince their clients, friends or relatives to share their emotional burdens of anxiety and depression with professionals, the reasons for this avoidance should be discussed.
“Address the issues on why the person will not get the necessary help,” Popovich said. “Many people who are struggling are fearful and frustrated. Try to find out the reasons why he or she won’t get the help they need and then try to find ways that will overcome their resistance of seeking assistance.”
