As if the world was not harsh on its own, Covid 19 made a dramatic entrance, perhaps to remind us that things can always go either way. Better or worse. Yes, the pandemic has messed up the quality of life we are living. But did you know that two demons started that work long before Covid? Just how strong is your mental health?
Anxiety
What does a panic attack feel like? I have heard this question one too many times. Panic attacks feel different for different people. I may not go into the details, because I am not a mental health expert. However, having battled Anxiety Disorder for thirteen years, I can answer that question in simple terms. A panic attack feels like a rollercoaster that has lost control, and you can't get out of it. The dizziness, numbness, and tingling of fingers, trembling hands, sweating, loss of breath, nausea, and heart palpitations that a person feels, can lead them to believe that they are coming down with some serious illness. But the truth of the matter is that Anxiety is mental. Your mind goes 'rogue' and believes things it knows are not true. The constant and nagging sense of impending doom only creates more panic. In this pandemic era, more and more people are having panic attacks. The fear of the unknown or simply put, Hypochondriasis, can elevate anxiety levels. If you experience such symptoms or think you are having panic attacks, it is best to see your doctor or a mental health expert for diagnosis.
The most important thing that you should know is, a panic attack will pass quickly if you remain calm through it. Remind yourself that it is just a feeling and it cannot kill you. Think of a happy place or things that make you smile. With time, with the guidance of your doctor, you will learn how to identify the triggers. Always remind yourself that no matter what you might be facing, things will eventually get better.
Websites like Anxiety Centre help people to deal with anxiety and provide detailed information about it.
Stress and Depression
Stress is a part of life. Many things that we engage in, in our daily lives can lead to certain levels of stress, which is normal. The challenge comes when these levels shoot out of the normal boundaries. When this happens, Anxiety and/or Depression kick in. Depression, just like anxiety, is a mental condition that requires diagnosis. My experience with depression (Postpartum) was an empty feeling. You feel like you are alone in the world and nobody cares. It feels like you are not good enough for anything. You are always filled with sadness, even when at times you can not really identify what is making you sad. Depressed people cry a lot, and always need the people around them to be very understanding. If you think you are depressed, you need to see your doctor or a mental health expert for a diagnosis.
Better Help is a website that provides information about mental health and offers counselling services.
To anyone going through this, do not fight alone. Talk to someone you trust. Accept help. Remind yourself every day that you matter and you are important. Summon all your strength, because you can and will beat this. If you are not going through this, please check on your loved ones. And when dealing with strangers, a little kindness goes a long way. A lot of people are fighting these demons. Don't be another reason why someone loses hope in life. Spread love.
Disclaimer: The author is not a medical practitioner or mental health expert. The contents of this article are purely based on personal experience and should not be taken or assumed as a diagnosis. Please visit your doctor for any kind of diagnosis.
