Many of us carry the burden of anxiety hidden beneath our fast-paced everyday lives. But nervousness, unease, and worry often creep up and try to impact our physical and mental well-being. Although anxiety has a massive impact on our health, many of us overlook its prevalence. Why do we do so? Perhaps because it is intuitive to avoid the unknown rather than confront fears.
This warrants a closer examination, so in this blog, let us explore why anxiety is so often overlooked.
The Mask of Normalcy
In her book Teen Anxiety: Drop the Rope, author Dr. Kinnari Birla-Bharucha quotes Philip Kendall, director of the Child and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders Clinic at Temple University, Philadelphia, “Anxiety is easy to dismiss or overlook, partially because everyone has it to some degree.”
Thus, we all have anxiety. However, research has shown that some degree of anxiety and stress can be helpful in keeping us motivated and excited about things that matter to us. However, unlike other medical problems, like cough or a fever, which are easily noticed by others, anxiety is often overlooked. It manifests in a way that may make one appear well-adjusted from the outside.
The smile or composed demeanor of someone could simply be a mask, covering up their internal struggles. This “mask of normalcy” can make it difficult for us to diagnose anxiety in ourselves and others.
Then comes the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Even if you or someone else recognizes anxiousness, they might hesitate to open up. This is an uncomfortable truth, but the fear of being judged or labeled as weak keeps us from seeking the support we need. In such times, reading books like Teen Anxiety: Drop the Rope may help you break down such barriers and find strength in times of adversity.
Anxiety may emerge suddenly or build up slowly and gradually. But there is a problem with the slow onset of anxious feelings – it may cause you to normalize them instead of realizing that they are a potential mental health concern – making it easier for them to remain unnoticed.
You Are Not Alone
Anxiety exists on a spectrum. It may range from mild unease to debilitating panic attacks. If you have a milder form of anxiety, you might feel like it is a “normal” feeling, but others with more significant conditions may feel overwhelmed by it.
Then there are some who put on a brave face and silently battle with anxiety. They believe their feelings aren’t significant enough to warrant attention or burden others with their problems. Their ability to hide anxiety makes it difficult for others to recognize the extent of their struggles. If you relate, do not be afraid of these emotions; your loved ones and healthcare professionals are here to help you and will provide invaluable assistance in managing and overcoming anxiety.
Dr. Kinnari Birla-Bharucha’s book Teen Anxiety: Drop the Rope explores what anxiety is and how it affects teenagers. The book offers you an opportunity to live an empowered, enjoyable, and peaceful life. It also introduces and explains Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – teaching you a compassionate approach to managing your anxiety.
Read Teen Anxiety: Drop the Rope and say hello to a better tomorrow.
