What is Anxiety?

These feelings are more common than you might think — and everyone experiences anxiety differently.

Anxiety is a complex emotional and physical response that arises when the brain perceives a threat — whether real or imagined. It is a natural survival mechanism meant to help us respond to danger. However, in modern life, anxiety often appears not in response to immediate threats, but to future worries, uncertainty, and overwhelming pressure.

People with anxiety may experience persistent worry, overthinking, irritability, and physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or stomach tension. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to intense, paralyzing fear — even when there is no clear cause.

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, and specific phobias. These conditions can deeply impact a person’s ability to function at work, in relationships, or in daily routines.

pdf – Ficha de problemas de ansiedad

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders

 

💡 Types of Anxiety Disorders:

  1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Ongoing worry or tension, even when there’s no clear cause.

  2. Panic Disorder: Sudden panic attacks with physical symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

  3. Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of being judged or rejected in social situations.

  4. Phobias: Strong, irrational fear of specific things (like heights, animals, or flying).

  5. Health Anxiety / OCD / PTSD: Conditions with overlapping symptoms tied to anxiety.

  • Racing thoughts

  • Restlessness or feeling “on edge”

  • Increased heart rate or chest tightness

  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

  • Avoidance of certain situations or people

  • A sense of dread, fear, or panic without a clear reason

⚠️ Common Symptoms of Anxiety

💬 You’re Not Alone

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges worldwide. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles.

At GrocPeople, we believe in creating a space where anxiety is understood — not hidden. Through real stories, shared experiences, and emotional tools, we aim to support those walking through it every day.


🌿 Tips to Manage and Reduce Anxiety

🌬️

Breathe Deeply

☕

Limit Caffeine and Sugar

🌳

Practice Grounding

Take slow, deep breaths. Try inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 4, exhaling for 4. It helps calm your nervous system in moments of stress.

High levels of caffeine and sugar can spike anxiety. Try switching to water, herbal tea, or decaf options during anxious periods.

Bring yourself back to the present. Try the 5-4-3-2-1 technique:

  • 5 things you can see

  • 4 you can touch

  • 3 you can hear

  • 2 you can smell

  • 1 you can taste

⏰

Create a Daily Routine

💬

Talk About It

✍️

Write it Down

Structure creates safety for the brain. Even simple habits like waking up and sleeping at consistent times can reduce anxious feelings.

Anxiety grows in silence. Talk to someone you trust, a therapist, or join a support space like GrocPeople. Sharing helps.

Journaling your thoughts gets them out of your head and onto paper. It helps you identify patterns and release emotional pressure.

 

🏃

Move Your Body

📵

Disconnect for a While

💛

Practice Self-Compassion

Gentle exercise like walking, yoga, or stretching releases endorphins that reduce stress. Even 10 minutes can help.

Reduce time on social media or the news if it overwhelms you. Replace it with music, books, or calm spaces.

 

You’re not weak for feeling anxious. You’re human. Speak to yourself the way you would to a loved one going through a hard time.