Anxiety impacts all ages

Anxiety doesn’t stick to a certain age bracket — it can affect each and every one of us at some point in our lives. According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of Canada, one in four adults will experience an anxiety disorder at one point in their life and about three per cent of children and youth will as well (Canadian Mental Health Association). 

Feelings of worry or fear are all components of anxiety, but it can often be dismissed as “that’s life.” Everyone has feelings of anxiety at different points in their life, whether you have a medical procedure or are feeling anxious about a job interview or test. But anxiety can also present itself as more of a debilitating condition in people of all ages. 

A very common form of a mental illness, there are many different forms of anxiety ranging from phobias and panic to social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

Not sure if you have a problem with anxiety? If the worrying lasts longer than you may expect, is impacting your sleep or disrupting your ability to focus on school work or at your job, you may be someone who needs help to develop coping strategies. 

Pandemic-inducing anxiety

As the COVID-19 global health crisis nears the one-year mark, anxiety is front and centre for many. There is an increased stress level and worry that comes with living through a pandemic. The ability to cope with the changing dynamics may come easier for some than others. 

The data is showing significant impacts of COVID-19 on our young people. Kids Help Phone is receiving close to 2,000 calls or text per day. And last May, a Canadian Community Health Survey indicated that more than one-third (37 per cent) of youth reported negative impacts to their mental health.

While the long-term impacts of the pandemic aren’t yet being fully realized, there’s no question that the mental health of our community is struggling.

How to cope

If you’re feeling an overwhelming sense of stress, start with some healthy techniques for coping.

  • Reduce your news intake and disconnect the constant stream of updates that can be upsetting and disheartening

  • Practice a healthy lifestyle through a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, plenty of sleep and avoid excessive alcohol

  • Connect with friends and family in a safe way, through virtual chats, phone calls, text messages and safe outdoor gatherings when permitted

Above all, reach out and talk to someone. 

Anxiety disorders are treatable with help from your family doctor and counselling support. Counsellors can help you identify triggers, teach you relaxation strategies and mindfulness techniques to allow you to manage your anxiety now and in the future.

In addition to counsellors available to book through Some Other Solutions, we also have a team of Community Outreach Workers available for the youth in our community. Learn more about the child and youth programs we have available, such as mentoring, that can help with anxiety.

Melanie Nicholson