Anxiety is a normal human emotion that people experience in their life to varying degrees. However, some people may experience anxiety to an extreme extent which leads to serious physical and mental health issues. Fortunately, there is hope for people suffering from anxiety disorders because recovery is possible. This article will look at the six stages of anxiety recovery, which provide a helpful roadmap to healing and lasting relief from debilitating symptoms.
About Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety defines a group of mental health disorders that can cause feelings of fear, worry, or unease. People with anxiety may experience intrusive thoughts and physical symptoms such as sweating, difficulty breathing, and increased heart rate. From mild to severe, anxiety can take on many different forms, including panic attacks, social anxiety disorder, and phobias.
Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the US, with about 40 million adults suffering from it . According to NIH, anxiety disorders can disrupt a person's life by increasing the risk of substance abuse, alcoholism, major depression, and even cardiac arrests. However, a few people try to recover from it. Mentioned below are the six stages of anxiety recovery.
Note: There is no certain order to these stages. Depending on the individual, recovery may take different paths.
The 6 Anxiety Recovery Stages
- Stage 1: Acclimating & Starting the Work
- Stage 2: Resisting the Process
- Stage 3: Pushing Through the Resistance and Responding to Treatment
- Stage 4: Doing the Work and Stepping Up the Game
- Stage 5: Creating Confidence through Mastery & Self-Advocation
- Stage 6: Demonstrating Mastery
Anxiety TestDo our quick 10 question, convidential Anxiety tets and get a basic understanding of your current level of anxiety.
Stage 1: Acclimating & Starting the Work
The initial stage of anxiety disorder recovery involves wanting to recover the condition. In the first stage, those who are overwhelmed by anxiety symptoms will try to stop panicking and start accepting the reality of their situation. They realize however, that does not matter how hard they try, they can't control their problematic anxiety. Only then do they understand that they need help from mental health professionals and will start to look for one.
If your situation relates to this stage, consider yourself lucky, as only 36.9% of anxiety patients out of 19.1% population in the US actually seek help.
Stage 2: Resisting the Process
In this phase, your mind resists the idea of getting help, and you might not be able to take your situation seriously or even see the need for help. You are afraid of what change your therapy could bring. However, you must move on if you want to recover.
Stage 3: Pushing Through the Resistance and Responding to Treatment
The third stage of anxiety disorder recovery is ignoring the resistance of your mind and trying out anxiety medication given by the doctor. You might hesitate at first, but you eventually try to accept and follow through with treatment. This is a difficult stage for many patients as it usually involves confronting your fears and accepting your mental illness. This stage is so fragile that you may stop taking medications at any moment.
Tips to push through this step: Once you start getting treatments, do not stop suddenly. Otherwise, you might experience withdrawal symptoms that mimic anxiety symptoms. Practice self-care and seek support from your family and friends if negative thoughts and feelings arise. Talk to your therapist when your mind tries to resist.
Stage 4: Doing the Work and Stepping Up the Game
This is the stage where you consciously try to work through anxiety. Other than taking medications, you will set up realistic goals and take actionable steps to reach them. You will also attend therapy sessions, join support groups, or try alternative treatments like yoga and meditation. You will see progress in your condition as you work to manage and cope with it.
Tips: Passing this stage will take time and patience, and it is normal to feel overwhelmed at some point. However, stay consistent with your treatment. Also, don't forget to take regular breaks to avoid stress.
Stage 5: Creating Confidence through Mastery & Self-Advocation
You are almost recovered. You can now start whatever you want confidently. You are starting to master your condition and advocate for yourself. This means understanding your needs and boundaries, participating in activities you enjoy, and having meaningful relationships with others.
Stage 6: Demonstrating Mastery
You are now fully recovered and thriving. You have full control over your body and mental health. Now you can recognize warning signs of relapse quickly and are actively involved in self-care.
In this stage, you may also try to help others with mental health issues, which is a good sign. However, do not stop your therapy sessions unless advised by your therapist. You must also continue self-care, such as exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation techniques. Anxiety can be controlled, but there is no cure for it . So, stay connected with your support system, practice mindfulness and meditation regularly, and use the coping skills you have learned as long as you can.
Anxiety Treatment Options
There are various treatment options available for anxiety and depression.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- This is a therapy that focuses on changing the thinking patterns and behavior of the individual to reduce symptoms of anxiety.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)- DBT is a form of psychotherapy that combines cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices.
- Trauma Therapy- Trauma therapy helps people process and heal from past traumatic events that may be contributing to anxiety disorder.
- Medication- Depending on the type and severity of anxiety, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to treat your condition. These can include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or beta blockers.
Conclusion
Anxiety disorder is a serious condition that can dramatically affect your psychological and physical well-being. However, with the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage anxiety and improve your quality of life. Taking the first step is the hardest, but with professional help, you can step through the recovery process and regain control of your life. Good luck!
FAQ
How long does it take to recover from anxiety?
Depending on the individual, it can take from a few months to several years to overcome anxiety.
Can anxiety completely go away?
Anxiety disorders usually go away with the right treatment and self-care plan. However, you can not cure the illness completely. But you can manage it and cope with the rest of the symptoms.
References
- Facts & Statistics | Anxiety and Depression
- Anxiety - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
- Can Anxiety Be Cured?
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