A View From Above on Things That Make The World Go 'Round
James Donaldson on Mental Health – Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders
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Recognizing signs of anxiety and ways to get help
Anxiety has become a common topic of conversation more and more. That’s likely because many people may have experienced at least some anxiety at one time or another. Anxiety might happen as a reaction to relationships, health, school, work, finances, unexpected changes, big life events — any number of things. At times, anxiety may be considered a healthy emotion — in some moments, it may alert you to pay better attention to your mental health. However, when your thoughts or concerns become intrusive and “what-if” worries start to affect your daily life, you may have an anxiety disorder.
What is an anxiety disorder?
An anxiety disorder is defined as having racing thoughts or feelings paralyzed by fear, or when thoughts feel out of control.1 More than 40 million adults in the United States alone are impacted by anxiety disorders.2
What causes anxiety?
Although the exact cause of anxiety is unknown, research points to the fact that genetic factors and negative events or stressful life experiences may play a role. Some health conditions or medication side effects may also produce or aggravate symptoms.2
Using substances (alcohol, drugs, tobacco) to cope
Eating more or less than usual
Experiencing a sense of perceived danger or doom
Feeling nervous or on edge
Feeling weak or fatigued
Feeling restless
Increased heart rate
Fast breathing
Headaches
Muscle pain
Not being able to sleep
Stomach pain
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
When should I seek professional help for anxiety?
If you’re experiencing any of the signs if anxiety indicated above, it may be time to get help. It takes courage to ask for help, but it’s an important first step. A behavioral health specialist may be able to help you find ways to cope with anxiety and manage your thoughts and worries. Learn how to choose a mental health provider.
If you or a loved one has suicidal thoughts or plans, call 911 right away. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also available 24/7, providing confidential support and prevention and crisis resources. Call 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org/chat. For TTY users, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
It’s not uncommon for those struggling with anxiety to hope the issue will go away on its own. The reality is — if left untreated — symptoms may get much worse. With the right combination of therapy, stress management and medication, anxiety is considered treatable.2
Stop what you are doing. Close your eyes. Breathe in and breathe out slowly.
Eat well-balanced meals.
Get enough good sleep — create a schedule and try not to use cell phones or laptops in bed.
Focus on what you may be able to change.
Find time to exercise.
Limit alcohol and caffeine.
Retrain your brain to think positive thoughts — you may be able to “uncreate” that negative thought by reframing it.
Bring yourself back to the moment by doing something tangible — hold an ice cube or rub a soft piece of fabric between your fingers. The sensation can engage your senses (your thoughts can’t be two places at once).
Redirect your energy to something else (Go for a walk. Clean. Watch a funny video).
If you are having trouble managing your fears and worries, you may want to think about seeking professional help as outlined above. Offer yourself grace. You deserve compassion and understanding as you try to regain your footing.
#James Donaldson notes: Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes. Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use. Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.#http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book, #CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy
It may help to know that there are different types of anxiety disorders. Knowing which type you may be dealing with may be another way to help you better understand how to cope and seek help if you need it.
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
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