The Anxiety Epidemic:Is our culture to blame?

It's hard to deny it: anxiety is rampant. It seems like everyone's feeling it, from kids to adults. While anxiety is a normal human emotion, the sheer volume and intensity of it in our modern world suggests something bigger is at play.

The American Psychiatric Association’s annual mental health poll over the past 3 years shows that U.S. adults are feeling increasingly anxious. I am raising my second round of teenagers, the first was 15 years ago. We didn’t talk about anxiety much back then yet now it seems almost a buzz word amongst our youth.

Why is anxiety on the rise?

Our hyper-connected, always-on culture bombards us with stressors. Social media fuels constant comparison and the fear of missing out (FOMO). The 24/7 news cycle keeps us perpetually aware of global crises and local anxieties. Some professionals believe that avoiding conflict or arguments in relationships (whether professional or personal) is a high contributor to increased anxiety. Is it possible that in a world where we can hide behind a computer when we disagree with others is creating a culture where discussing difficult issues in person is atrophying? Or is it that the belief that anxiety is a disease the biggest problem of all?

Anxiety is treatable

The good news is that for most sufferers, anxiety is very treatable. The bad news is more than 75% of adults have not sought professional help. Notably younger adults (18-34) are more than twice as likely than adults over 50 to seek help.

Three things to help:

If you’re feeling like anxiety has more of a hold on you than you’d like, here are 3 things that can help.

1. Cultivate Mindfulness and Presence: Mindfulness practices, like meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help us slow down, connect with the present moment, and quiet the anxious chatter in our minds. Letting go of the belief that anxiety is a disease will help us accept that its ok to have moments and even periods of time where we feel anxious. Additionally, my clients regularly report a noticeable decrease in anxiety after just a few sessions of restorative guided meditations called The Journey.

2. Set Boundaries and Prioritize: Learning to say "no" to things that drain us and prioritizing what truly matters is crucial for managing anxiety. This might mean setting boundaries with work, social media, or even family and friends. This might include creating personal boundaries around conversations when difficult issues need to be discussed.

3. Connect with Others and Seek Support: Human connection is a powerful antidote to anxiety. Spending time with loved ones, sharing your feelings, and building strong support networks can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you're struggling. Talking to a therapist or coach can provide valuable tools and strategies for managing anxiety. Remember, you're not alone in this.

We are not powerless

While the cultural factors contributing to anxiety are complex, we are not powerless. By practicing mindfulness, setting boundaries, and connecting with others, we can take proactive steps to manage our anxiety and create a more balanced and fulfilling life, even in a world that often feels overwhelming. Let's start the conversation – what other strategies do you use to manage anxiety in our modern world? Share your tips in the comments below! #anxiety #mentalhealth #mindfulness #wellbeing #culture #stressmanagement #meditation

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