EPQ: Anxiety and Stress

"If exercise were a pill, it would be one of the most cost-effective drugs ever invented"

• low self esteem regarding appearance 
• case study
• tips and tricks

Experiencing anxiety or stress is completely normal, and can be caused my events in our everyday lives. However, when these worries begin to feel uncontrollable, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) could be an appropriate diagnosis. GAD is long term condition that can make sufferers feel worried or anxious about many things in their normal lives. Research suggests that it has many causes: genetics, substance abuse, trauma, imbalance of chemicals serotonin and noradrenaline. 

In primary research I conducted, over half of people said they had experienced mental health issues, 64% of this being anxiety. Of these 38% of these said they use exercise to cope with their symptoms. 

Research shows anxieties can be reduced by medication or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). But, they also suggest trying:  

• going on a self-help course
• exercising regularly
• stopping smoking
• cutting down on the amount of alcohol and caffeine you drink [1]
  

Exercising in daily life

Lots of us are very busy in our everyday lives, so finding time to exercise can seem unrealistic. However, increasing our physical activity is something that can be incorporated into our routine. Joining an expensive gym isn't specifically necessary!!

At home

• Walk to school or work
• Set time limits when tidying, to motivate you to work faster and warm up your muscles as you move
• Put some music on for a 10 minute dance.
• 
  
• At work

• Can you walk faster whilst going to and from train station/ car parks?
• Ditch the lift where possible, stairs can be your friend!! 
• Use your lunch hour. Take a brisk walk, do an exercise class or go for a swim.
• Don’t pick up the phone; walk to see a colleague.

Out and about

• Leave the car at home for short journeys.
• Get off the bus a stop earlier, or get on a stop later.
• Jog and walk the dog; jog ten paces, then walk ten.
• Join an exercise class at your community centre – and meet your neighbours! [2]

Case study

Paula Dunn
1988 Olympic Athlete (100 & 200 metre running)

"regular physical exercise helps me to cope with the challenges of life"

Lena Dunham

Comedian and actress

 “Exercise has helped with my anxiety in ways I never dreamed possible.

“It ain't about the ass, it's about the brain.”[3] 

If you require further support, visit a mental health helpline like Mind  [https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/#.WhlrE9Jl_IU ] OR book an appointment with your GP. 

[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/generalised-anxiety-disorder/- NHS choices

[2] https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/our-services/anxiety-information/physical-exercise-anxiety/ - Anxiety UK

[3] http://www.womenshealthmag.co.uk/health/stress/4514/female-celebrities-with-anxiety-how-they-deal-with-it/- Women's health mag