Stress Is Killing You, And You May Not Even Know

Written by Colleen Palat

We all suffer from stress and anxiety at some point in our lives. 30 million Americans have been diagnosed with general anxiety disorders, including panic disorders, phobias and post-traumatic stress disorders while another 35 million people with anxiety suffer mild to moderate symptoms.

Luckily, you CAN turn things around by discovering methods of dealing with your stress and anxiety naturally, helping you feellike a new person in just a few days!

On average, 70% of all people with a general anxiety disorder will consult with more than 10 physicians before the cause of their symptoms is accurately diagnosed. A recent study at Harvard Medical School reported that patients who cope poorly with stress become ill four times more often than those with good coping skills.

If you are not sure if you suffer from a general anxiety disorder, the following is a list of the most frequent signs of anxiety. They are: trembling, rapid heartbeat, lump in throat, frozen smile,neck-aches, indigestion, insomnia, overeating,preoccupation with illness, fear of embarrassment or rejection, and fear of being ugly or fat.

Have you ever experienced any of these? If so, do not worry. We all go through stress at some point in our lives. As long as youdon't have these feelings on a daily or weekly basis, you are probably fine. If you do experience a good portion of these signs of anxiety, read through the list below for strategies to developing inner peace.

Movement- Physical activity helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Walking is especially good for anxiety. Try not to push yourself to the point where it is unpleasant if you are straining or pushing yourself to hard, it will not be as beneficial in reducing anxiety.

Relax- Scientific studies have shown that when viewing natural landscapes (sky, trees, greenery, water or flowers) people tend to feel more relaxed and less anxious. Remember, you deserve to enjoy your life and there is no reason to feel guilty about relaxing!

Eat right- It's important to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Balancing the diet helps to balance the levels of neurotransmitters involved in keeping stress and depression in check.

Take charge- A major cause of anxiety is the feeling of a lack of control. Helplessness is a huge component in depression and anxiety. It is a good idea to ask yourself questions like, "Why am I doing this?" or "Do I have to do this?" or "Will the world end if I do not?" Most importantly, do not be afraid to say "no" if you feel uncomfortable about something.

Take inventory on what causes you anxiety. Take the anxiety test I found in Natural Health magazine below.

0= no anxiety
1= mild anxiety
2= moderate anxiety
3= severe anxiety

1. ____ confronting a loved one about a problem
2. ____ making a major purchase or investment
3. ____ making a mistake, failing
4. ____ being seen naked or in a bathing suit
5. ____ sexual preference
6. ____ keeping things neat and orderly
7. ____ heavy commuter traffic
8. ____ deadlines, evaluations or tests
9. ____ financial obligations, unpaid bills
10. ____ feeling stared at
11. ____ going to a public restroom
12. ____ being criticized
13. ____ talking to people in authority
14. ____ the sight of blood
15. ____ socializing at a party
16. ____ giving or receiving a gift
17. ____ making cold calls at work
18. ____ being on time for appointments or events
19. ____ packing for a trip
20. ____ waiting in line
21. ____ being in enclosed places
22. ____ eating along in a restaurant
23. ____ speaking to a group
24. ____ taking a business call
25. ____ the thought of death
26. ____ being in a crowd
27. ____ entering the elevator
28. ____ going in an airplane
29. ____ driving a car
30. ____ going to a doctor or dentist
31. ____ going to sleep or waking up
32. ____ coming home to an empty house
33. ____ rejection in love or at work

Add your score up. Which category do you fall in?

0-19: you have no to mild anxiety.
20-39: mild to moderate anxiety
40-59: moderate anxiety
60 and over: a possible anxiety disorder

If indeed you suspect that you suffer from a general anxiety disorder, please consult your physician. You can also try taking Kava or Siberian Ginseng supplements to help relax you. I also recommend reading Psycho-Cybernetics by Walter Maltz. This incredibly life-changing book discusses the power our mind has on our self-image and happiness.

Anxiety and stress are very real components in our lives. It is amazing how much they wear on our body, not to mention our mental health. If you experience high levels of stress or general anxiety, get it under control as soon as possible. See your physician and begin to take inventory of your life. You are important, so take care of yourself!