When to be concerned. Let’s consider a few things first. How often are you feeling on edge or like you are driven like a motor? If you have been feeling this way for several weeks on end, this may be a reason for concern. When you are feeling anxious, are there triggers that seem to ignite each time such as being around a lot of people in an enclosed space or could it be the pressure of meeting a deadline or a large exam in school?
There is a diagnosis such as Separation Anxiety Disorder which includes symptoms such as recurrent excessive distress brought in by anticipating or experiencing separation from home or people. Another symptom is persistent worry over losing a major attachment figure such as a parent, or spouse or those attachment figures being in any kind of risk of danger causing harm. Also, there is persistent worry of experiencing an event resulting in separation. When to be concerned.
With something like Separation Anxiety Disorder, this has to do with outside triggers such as going out in public and/or being worried about potentially being separated from a loved one. In this case, medication could definitely help but there are some other aspects that can be better thought through and planned. When to be concerned.
I have a client who hated going to a place like Walmart in the afternoon. His solution is to go in the morning when there is little to no one at Walmart. Knowing ahead of time that going to an event with a lot of people gives you the opportunity to better plan and put systems in place.
If you are going to a large place like Walmart where it is very easy to get separated, agree to meet at a specific place when you are lost. If you have no other choice than being around something you know if going to trigger you, have an exit plan in place. This exit could be walking outside, getting some water or even visiting the restroom.
Being uncomfortable and having anxiety unfortunately is a part of life. There is a way to minimize or bypass that anxiety altogether. If you are looking for a therapist near you and a Google search is a great way of finding one. I happen to be a therapist in Charlotte, NC but am licensed to counsel anyone in the state of North Carolina. In Google, try looking for “psychotherapist,” “find therapist,” “therapy near me,” or even “counseling charlotte, nc.” If you feel like you have hit a wall you are not able to get past, call me at (704) 458-6298 or email me at jeffhelms@clearerthoughtspllc.com.
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