In this weeks episode Haylie and I talk all about Situational Anxiety!
There are there certain situations that, no matter what you do, seem to cause your nerves to completely spike?
For many people, public speaking is one such circumstance.
As they stand up to speak, their hands instantly begin to tremble. Their voices change from steady to shaky. Beads of sweat pool at the top of their temples, and they can feel their faces reddening. Worry and sleeplessness take over in the days before, and sometimes even after.
These symptoms can become so uncomfortable that any speaking event, big or small, is a miserable experience, and one that should be avoided altogether.
This is an example of what’s known as situational anxiety.
What exactly is situational anxiety?
Situational anxiety is a specific type of anxiety that occurs during unfamiliar situations or events that make us so nervous that we lose control of our ability to stay calm.
And it’s incredibly common, especially when it comes to public speaking. But there are other situations that can cause anxiety levels to elevate.
These can include:
· Going to a job interview
· Attending a networking event
· Meeting someone for a first date
· Riding an airplane
· Sharing an opinion during a meeting
· Making small talk with new acquaintances
· Being away from home
· Using a public restroom
· Leading a meeting or discussion
· Standing alone in a public place
It’s important to note that situational anxiety is not necessarily the same as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), which is a continuous state of worry despite the situation.
What does situational anxiety feel like?
Situational anxiety can cause both a mind a body response, triggering physical as well as emotional symptoms.
These can include:
· Nervousness
· Irritability
· Fatigue
· Worry
· Low self-esteem
· Shaky hands
· Headaches
· Muscle tension
· Chest pains
· Sweaty palms
· Rapid heartbeat
· Shallow breathing
· Sweating
· Blushing
Anxiety is very personal and people may experience different symptoms from one another.
