Elisabeth Ramsberg Larsen — www.easycalm.com

A few days ago, I was riding in a car on the interstate. It was around rush hour, and traffic was particularly bad. Other cars and trucks were weaving in and out of lanes, tailgating, and speeding. New lanes were added all the time and the general flow of traffic was about 80 mph. I got nervous. My palms started sweating, my heart was racing, I was tense and on the verge of tears. Was I having an anxiety attack? No. Anytime you have 3000 ton trucks coming at you at 80 mph you are perfectly entitled to feel scared. I experienced fear, which is not the same thing as anxiety.

There are many different definitions of anxiety and panic attacks floating around, some with slight variations. Most define anxiety and panic attacks as feelings of fear, dread or tension without there being a threat or clear justification as to why you are feeling these things. As a psychologist once explained it to me, “Anxiety is irrational fear”.

It is important to keep this in mind, and not jump to the conclusion that you are having anxiety every time you feel fearful, stressed or scared.

Let me give you another example: [Read more...]