Anxiety Q&A
During October 2015 I asked 10-15 women ages 21-27 if they would like to participate in an anonymous open questionnaire about their anxiety.
The women were simply told to answer the questions, no why or what would happen later.
The goal however on my end was to put together all the answers and show people with and without anxiety how it affects people differently as well as show the women suffering that they truly are not alone.
I also purposely waited over 15 months to reveal everything so that the participants can read their answers and realize how different things are from 15 months ago.
Here are the results. Names have not been added for privacy and confidentiality but no answer is altered in any way.
12 women participated. I will state the question and then provide the 12 responses.
Question 1: How often would you say you experience anxiety? Daily? Weekly? Explain.
P1: A few times a week I'll feel really panicky. It's usually brought on when I think about finances, the future of my career, etc
P2: The anxiety I feel hits me almost every day in some way. Most days it's when I'm at work and I'm alone and get busy. I feel as if I'll lose my job if everything isn't perfect, even though I know my boss understands.
P3: Only when I have exams or big decisions/important events
P4: Daily. I have obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.
P5: Daily. It used to be a few times a day, but treatment that I went through decreased the amount of anxiety I experience.
P6: Weekly. Different things may trigger an anxiety attack. I don't have continuous anxiety about all things. But more like a stressful event like realizing I forgot to do something, or if I over think something I am about to do I may have a panic/anxiety attack.
P7: I experience anxiety once every couple years.
P8: I experience anxiety at least once a month, typically around my menstrual. This makes me believe it is hormone-related.
P9: Only when something that makes me nervous happens or is close to happening. Ex: Doctors apts. Gun shootings. Deaths. Etc
P10: Depends. Some days I stress more than others, but probably daily.
P11: My anxiety is situational triggered only by certain/specific things. work related-maybe once a month or every other month. rarely while driving. about one a week or every two weeks.
P12: Daily- I am constantly anxious about school, every day.
Question 2: What is your DOB? (I'll only add ages to avoid revealing any identities)
P1: 27
P2: 27
P3: 25
P4: 23
P5: 25
P6: 27
P7: 21
P8: 25
P9: 26
P10: 25
P11: 27
P12: 24
Question 3: Define what anxiety is to you in your own words.
P1: The daily anxiety is faint and more manageable. The anxiety attack are different. It's a panic that you can't control. I can't stop my brain from thinking of worse and worse scenarios. My skin feels like it's crawling.
P2: Anxiety to me is losing all control. I already have a heart condition, so when my anxiety kicks in, it literally feel like a heart attack. I feel like I'm in a closed space, I can't breathe, I get dizzy, and lose feeling in my left side. It's the scariest thing ever. It's like you're dying, but you really aren't.
P3: Anxiety for me is this sudden rush of feeling where I feel hopeless and basically lose the ability to just stay calm. All the sudden my thoughts seem unreasonable and I catch myself doubting my own decisions and beliefs.
P4: Anxiety is this thick fog around me at all times. It's a feeling that I want to destroy, but am not capable of.
P5: Overwhelming feeling of fear that paralyze an individual from living normal life. Makes even the smallest problem become major life issue. Always worrying what will future bring and expecting worse.
P6: Really it is just a moment of rapid/difficult breathing, being light-headed/dizzy and needing to take a few moments to calm down. I have more anxiety attacks than continuous anxiety.
P7: Anxiety is what you feel when you are extremely over whelmed and you cannot seem to handle it.
P8: I define anxiety as a feeling of constant worry and uneasiness.
P9: Anxiety is an uneasy feeling that occurs when I get nervous about a situation or event that has or is to happen.
P10: The mental state of becoming overwhelmed by your thoughts and feelings to the point of it affecting the task at hand--both consciously and subconsciously.
P11: To me, anxiety is when something heightens all of one's senses and nerves. It makes one loose focus to concentrate on anything else besides what is triggering the senses (anxiety).
P12: Anxiety to me is feeling helpless. Feeling like you can't control the nerves in your head, always feeling anxious. I even get nauseous- especially before an exam. Anxiety is feeling like you can't sit still, your mind is racing at an accelerated speed and you don't know what's coming next. Almost like I'm trapped under water at times trying to get to the top to breathe.
Question 4: Would you say your thoughts cause anxiety?
P1: Absolutely. Sometimes my thoughts will kind of take off with the worst case scenarios and I'll feel my heart rate and breathing get faster.
P2: My thoughts don't necessarily cause my anxiety. Not unless I'm at work and I get behind on my duties, or I get into an argument with someone I care about. Then I start to think of all possibilities if what could happen, and I start to freak out..
P3: Yes more of less I also think it has to do with the circumstances surrounding the situation.
P4: Yes.
P5: Chemical imbalance in brain.
P6: Yes. I tend to over think or get myself worked up about things. And if I can't talk myself out of it then I will have an anxiety attack and like need to calm down drink water and try to talk to a friend or something.
P7: Generally speaking for others, I do believe that anxiety is caused by thoughts for most people. However, my anxiety was always from pain. If I had a really bad stomach ache or cramps, I wouldn't be able to handle the pain and so I would start breathing faster and faster and start hyperventilating, then I would break into an anxiety attack.
P8: I would say my thoughts worsen the anxiety, but not to cause it.
P9: Yes, sometimes.
P10: Yes.
P11: Most definitely. To think of something traumatic, whether it's something experienced or a fear, can cause anxiety.
P12: Yes definitely- I over analyze and think wayyyyyy too much
Question 5: Do you feel you lack control on situations? If so, explain. (Financial, personal growth, relationship, etc)
P1: I feel really out of control with my finances. I picked a career where I know I'll never make a lot of money and it makes me nervous constantly. My relationships have changed lately because I've also developed sole social anxiety. Sometimes when I'm out with friends all I can think about is going home where I'm comfortable.
P2: The only thing I lack control over is my financial status at the moment, but that's the one thing I know I will get better so I don't stress over it much.
P3: Lately/most of the time it's school. Recently, my relationship(s). But I know deep within that I can gain control and I need to remain calm and think of what is important because if I let my anxiety get the best of me then I won't be able to make rational decisions.
P4: Yes. There is nothing I can do without being worried the entire time. I am constantly lacking control financially, and in relationships I do not let myself have any control because I fear being alone, and if the other person controls everything I feel protected.
P5: I feel complete lack of control on situations before my treatment, now I can handle anything.
P6: Yes. If something is getting crazy like for instance not getting a paycheck in time when I have bills due will cause me to have an anxiety attack. I don't usually feel worried or anxious about it but then I just flip out and have an anxiety attack about it.
P7: I don't believe I lack any control in any aspect of my life that I choose to confront. Things I do not have control over, I just put them aside and I understand it's okay not to have control over everything in the world.
P8: I do feel a lack of control in situations, and I think this may be the root of my anxiety. This does not pertain to any particular situation. If I'm experiencing anxiety that day, everything feels "out of control" and uneasy. It makes me so nervous, like I'm on a constant free-fall.
P9: No, I feel secure with my decisions and personal growth right now. But I have felt anxious about some of those situations in the past. When job/intern searching, also when I began I was unsure of myself and was more cautious with how I acted and what I said etc. Now I am boss :)
P10: Sometimes, but probably not more than the average person feels.
P11: No.
P12:Yes I feel not in control when I'm anxious. I'm a very independent woman- I'm always in control (for the most part) but anxiety has this power over me to where I can't control my thoughts. Finances definitely cause me anxiety- I can't work while in school so on top of school anxiety I have anxiety about how I'm going to pay my bills? How many more loans to take out?
Question 6: Are you able to or unable to control your thoughts?
P1: I can't control my thoughts when I'm having an anxiety attack.
P2: I control my thoughts as best as I can. Most days are fine. Some days I don't want to leave my room because I'm so anxious about what could happen. It's like being trapped in a loop that only you can break..
P3: Sometimes I think it's hard for anyone to just control his or her thoughts without influence and it's especially hard when one is under pressure or has anxiety over a situation.
P4: With medication- yes. Without medication-absolutely not.
P5: Now I can as I was taught by a professional psychiatrist and therapist to do it. I was unable to do it before I have started my treatment.
P6: Most of the time I can talk myself out of worrying or overthinking things and just get it together. But sometimes and usually without warning something will make me have an anxiety attack.
P7: I'm more able to control my thoughts.
P8: I believe with a good distraction, it can help control my thoughts.
P9: Depends. If I am anxious about something I think about it a lot and go over scenarios in my head.
P10: Sometimes its easier than others.
P11: I am able to control them very much so.
P12: Sometimes I can control it- if I just really concentrate on my life as a big picture- I know it's not the worst thing that could be happening to me- sometimes it really is difficult though to get wrapped up in my thoughts.
Question 7: How do you treat your anxiety? If medication, what kind & how often is it taken? If not medication, what do you do?
P1: I can't afford to medicate my anxiety and depression anymore so I just deal with it as best as I can.
P2: I am prescribed to Celexa to treat my anxiety. I don't take my medication daily though. It causes me to have nightmares. I tried very low dosage of Xanax, but that stuff is horrible. It makes you feel like a zombie, and you don't care about anything. The celebs helps release serotonin in your brain which makes you happy. But most days I try to focus on the positives in my life, and I do a large amount of cleaning...cleaning helps me a lot. I feel like I can control my atmosphere.
P3: I just take deep breaths, pray, maybe talk to someone.
P4: I am on Zoloft, Seroquel and Ativan. The Zoloft is daily and the other two are whenever I feel I need them.
P5: Cognitive therapy + medication. My PTSD was treated with high dosage of Zoloft once daily.
P6: I usually will try to eat or drink water. Call someone I can trust and talk to them about whatever is making me panic. No medication, my doctors have offered it to me and said I could take it when I have an attack to help me calm down after. But I don't want to do that and feel like just talking to myself as crazy as that is and talking to others really helps- having a good support system of friens and family I trust is my medicine.
P7: I treat it by breathing very slowly in a situation where I feel as if I'm about to have an anxiety attack. That tends to calm me down and relax my heart rate.
P8: I don't take any medication to treat anxiety specifically; however, I am on a regular BC to regulate my hormones. If I'm feeling anxious, I try to watch a happy movie or listen to music to "drown" my thoughts. I've stopped following news channels, and as a result, I experience less anxiety per month.
P9: I remember that I am over reacting and life will go on so I have to push through and keep my head up.
P10: I don't treat with medication. I try to gauge my response to situations and realize what's causing it.
P11: Refocus, ground myself, make a to-do list, vocalize it if it's something that's bothering me.
P12: No medication- I've never seen anyone about it- I just run or talk to my friends/boyfriend to help keep my mind off of it.
Question 8: When do you remember that the anxiety began? Year?
P1: It began well I was still in college in 2009.
P2: I started having anxiety issues years ago. but over the past several months it has gotten to the point where I need help controlling it. It started in high school when I found out I had a heart condition. everything went downhill from there.
P3: It got pretty bad in 2013 when I started ______ school. it's a whole different world and it can sometimes feel overwhelming.
P4: Age 7.
P5: I have always been anxious of things.
P6: I have had anxiety attacks since I was 10 years old.
P7: First attack was in junior year of high school so like 2010.
P8: 2004 maybe. This was the year I began my period also.
P9: Let's just say fear of doctors, because that is what truly makes me anxious. I have always been nervous in that situation.
P10: I've had it as long as I can remember, even as a child I would worry about things other people didn't dwell on.
P11: I have no idea. Probably picked up more when I started working in this specific field where my decisions affect others' lives.
P12: High school- when my parents put me into college prep courses - it was very minor though- I got straight A', college was a little more challenging an I stressed and had anxiety- but I still got A's and B's - this school though- a whole brand new level of challenge I've never experienced before which in turn presents a whole new level of anxiety I'm trying to tackle.
Question 9: How often do you work out?
P1: I haven't worked out regularly in about four months.
P2: I try to work out as often as possible. since I work so much, I literally run around my store, and then I detail clean as much as possible to help burn fat as well. it works, I am down 20 pounds :)
P3: Sometimes a few times per week other times when I'm busy I'll go weeks without working out
P4: 3x a week
P5: depends.
P6: Not often, but if I have a panic attack or feel like I am going to have one doing cardio really helps.
P7: Once a month or so. I used to work out a lot, but I don't as much since I have more on my plate.
P8: On a good week, I work out at least 5 times a week; however, within the last two months I have worked out maybe once a week. My job also keeps me very active.
P9: Not often enough. If I get into a workout kick then a couple times a eek. But currently I have not been going to the gym.
P10: once a week
P11: 4-5 times a week
P12: My ____ School makes it hard- I went from 3-4 times a week to barely once a week
Question 10: Are you affected by societal influences? For example, if you see something new and "cool" do you feel you must have it?
P1: Yes, sometimes. It's normally based on societal expectations of how a woman should look. I think I feel pressured to wear make up a certain way, do my hair certain way, dresses certain way. It never used to be an issue because I loved being so unique.
P2: Nothing influences me. I don't care what other people wear, listen to, or look like. I'm always going to do my own thing, even if I freak out doing it.
P3: Of course it's human nature especially in this day and age to want and have the 'coolest' things. I try not to be materialistic but sometimes we all want things that we can't have or things others have.
P4: No.
P5: Not at all.
P6: Not societal influences in that way but like societal events or environments. so like I get major anxiety attacks around or in an elevator. even though I know it's not a big deal I can't help it.
P7: Sometimes I do I if it really draws my attention, but not for the sake of everyone else getting that 'new and cool' thing.
P8: Sometimes, it just depends on what it is.
P9: If I like it then I go for it and if I don't care, regardless of societal influences I won't bother.
P10: No.
P11: Not usually. I won't buy anything unless I become fond of it and am in the mood to explore and make a purchase.
P12: Not really- sure it's cool and I want it but I'm broke so I'm good lol I grew up frugal- my parents didn't always have the money to get us cool stuff- I grew up working for what I want
Question 11: Do certain people bring upon your anxiety?
P1: Yes. My mom gives me a lot of anxiety. She has such old-fashioned, foreign, religious views of what my life should be and I'm constantly disappointing her because of that. Also sometimes my boyfriend gives me anxiety because sometimes I feel like I'm not good enough for him.
P2: Dealing in customer service is hard. I try not to let people get to me, but when I have extremely rude people screaming at me, I kinda lose it. and if I work with one of my bosses, I really have anxiety. she pushes and pushes till I feel like I'm going to break. it stresses me out so bad, that I can't breathe, and I break out in hot flashes and I can't seem to cool off at all...it's horrible..
P3: Sometimes like I said it depends on circumstances
P4: Yes.
P5: Yes. People that reminds me of my mother or my former abuser.
P6: Not specific people. but being around a lot of people I know I need to impress can cause a panic attack.
P7: No. It's only pain physical pain.
P8:No, I'd say certain events or thoughts of death bring on anxiety.
P9: Yes. Clashing personalities. But I suppose that is just annoyance and everyone gets that way with certain individuals that have completely different personalities and morals etc.
P10: No.
P11: No.
P12: My parents - sometimes I don't feel like I'm making them proud- but that's a whole different can of worms
Question 12: What is your biggest fear?
P1: Failure
P2: Honestly, my biggest fear is I won't be able to get pregnant again... I lost my daughter 5 years ago next month when I was 5 months pregnant. me and my ex tried for 2 years to no avail...I just want to bring at least one child into this world so my dad can be a grandfather to them...
P3: Someone close to me passing away
P4: lacking love
P5: former abuser
P6: Being trapped in a small space that I can't escape
P7: losing the people I love
P8: Losing absolute control of my mind is my biggest fear.
P9: Other than being killed or family being killed I would say giving blood, surgery and hospital related activity.
P10: I don't know, maybe heights.
P11: Work related- missing something. Making a decision that may not be the best one because I missed that 'something' but in general getting struck by lightening. getting into a car accident and losing a loved one.
P12: Failing school and not having a career
Question 13: While driving if you feel anxiety starting do you feel the need to pull over?
P1: No, oddly enough driving is soothing
P2: I don't have a car right now, so I'm not sure how I would react if I ended up having an attack while driving. I would hope I would have enough sense to pull over, but sometimes you lose all sense when you're having an attack..
P3: This doesn't typically happen because when I am in the car and I feel stressed out I'll roll my windows down and put on music that only has religious music, it calms me down
P4: Sometimes, if it's a full panic attack
P5: I don't drive
P6: Yes. In my case only having panic attacks, I will pull over and try to calm down
P7: If I were to feel an anxiety attack coming as I was driving, I would most definitely pull over and call someone the moment I feel it coming so they can come by me. I'm unstable when it happens and it's so hard to stop it without someone there helping you.
P8: No, my anxiety is not that severe to where it affects my everyday life.
P9: I guess I don't have that bad of anxiety, thank goodness.
P10: No
P11: No. I just want to get to my location where there is no lightening. Lightening or almost getting into an accident are the only two things I'd allow myself to get anxiety over while driving.
P12: No, driving actually calms me
Question 13: Are you ever embarrassed about having anxiety?
P1: Yeah, I try to not tell anyone about it
P2: Sometimes I am embarrassed...people don't understand what it's like to feel like you have no control and you're in them is endless loop of fear. But at the same time, I look at my short life and realize I have been through more than most people twice my age...I'm lucky to have made it this far without getting completely crazy. I always try to push forward but it's hard..
P3:
P4: Yes, only a few people know I have it.
P5: no
P6: yes because people don't always get it. and I feel like it can be a weakness or like a secret I have and don't want others to see not capable of managing my emotions.
P7: Not necessarily, but when I do have an attack, and the people around me tell me to just stop, breathe normally, and to calm down I do get embarrassed because I physically cannot stop. And those who haven't experienced an anxiety attack don't understand the state of mind you are in and how hard it is to control.
P8: No
P9: Usually I am good to own up to my fears and I don't care who knows. Ex: I just had a talk with my boss's boss's boss about my fear of birthing children lol. So I am comfortable in my insecurities.
P10: No.
P11: No.
P12: yea sometimes
Question 14: Are you a mom?
P1: No
P2: No
P3: No
P4: No.
P5: No.
P6: No
P7: No.
P8: No.
P9: No (hence anxiety)
P10: No.
P11: No.
P12: Nope
Question 15: What is your race?
P1: Hispanic
P2: I'm classified as Caucasian on forms. I just call myself my name though, since I am basically a mutt of all European backgrounds and some native American blood.
P3: Asian
P4:White
P5: Caucasian
P6: White
P7: I'm middle eastern
P8: Asian/White
P9: White (native American- Blackfoot and Cherokee, Irish and I am sure a bunch of other stuff :)
P10: White.
P11: Eastern Indian
P12: Hispanic and White
Question 16: Have you lost a loved one to death?
P1: Yes
P2: I have lost a lot of people in my life growing up. From uncles and grandmother's to my mother..Honestly there are so many dates I don't really know where to begin...but my mom passed away in 2007
P3: Yes my grandmother
P4: No one extremely close to me
P5: No
P6: No
P7: No
P8: Yes
P9: Grandparents (one before his time/accident) and a relative (overdose...)
P10: No.
P11: Yes
P12:Nope
Question 17: Do you ever cry when you feel anxiety?
P1: Yes I cry during anxiety attacks
P2:
P3: Yes.
P4: Sometimes
P5: No
P6: Yes, I cry when having a panic attack
P7: I always cry whenever I have an anxiety attack. I cry from the fact I'm not in control of how I'm feeling. I cry because it feels like every single second during an attack is closer to me dying. That's exactly how it feels.
P8: No
P9: Sure do
P10: Sometimes.
P11: No.
P12: Oh yeah
Question 18: When and where do you feel safest?
P1: at home and at my boyfriend's house where I stay a lot
P2: I don't feel safe anywhere really.. being safe to me is being away from everyone. I live with my friend and her family and I sleep in a garage.. Until I get back on my feet this is as close to safe as I'm getting.
P3: I'm not sure, probably around my loved ones. I feel really safe around my parents...and their home... it must have something to do with a feeling like a kid again and knowing they are still there.
P4: When I am with someone I love with their arms wrapped around me.
P5: With my roommate/best friend and boyfriend in our apartment (not kidding)
P6: No where is safe from a panic attack. They can happen anywhere at any time. But I feel most safe and calm in my childhood home where I grew up.
P7: I feel the safest when I'm with my fiancé because I know he will always protect me and never let anyone or anything harm me in any way.
P8: During the day at home I feel the safest
P9: In my bed at my home, at my grandparents home and with my husband.
P10: With loved ones
P11: at home
P12: with family, boyfriend, friends
Question 19: Are you over weight?
P1: No
P2: I have been overweight my whole life. I did get down to the smallest I have ever been before, some years ago. but I was still considered over weight. I think those scales are wrong.
P3: No
P4: No
P5: No
P6: Yes, by about 50 pounds
P7: No.
P8: I was overweight, I'd say now I am not
P9: No
P10: No
P11: No
P12: not that I know of
Question 20: If you could give advice to another person who DOES suffer from anxiety, what would you say?
P1: Get medicated an find something that calms you
P2: I would tell someone who does have anxiety that they should always try to focus on some kind of positive. No matter how bad it is right now, yippy can make it better or worst. So focus on the btter, and don't let yourself stop you.
P3: It's important to take a step back, trust God, and just remain calm as possible... things aren't as bad as they seem in the moment so try to relax and focus on what is important because anxiety can make people do things they normally wouldn't do.
P4: Don't be afraid to take your medicine
P5: Go to therapy and do not be afraid of trying out medicine. you will not regret it as it changes life.
P6: You are not alone. I know how you feel. And keep working hard to over come and manage it. It's not a barrier just a challenge you can beat everyday.
P7: Take out all the negative energy in your life. Avoid people who bring negativity around you and always keep yourself busy so you don't have thoughts that lead to anxiety.
P8: I have a co worker who often suffers from panic attacks and anxiety. When this person has an episode I pull this person aside and try to assist with breathing. I try to tell this person it is all in the mind and it will pass. I tell this person they are not alone and many people experience the same thing. I then try to encourage this person to speak to a therapist because there's nothing to be embarrassed about. This person doesn't have the means to speak to a professional, so I have given advice about cutting out sugars and caffeine from diet.
P9: Remember that most people are walking blindly through life, feeling their way just the same as you and we can all make it through. Even those who seems to have it all together are really just individuals who have 1. experience and 2. may have a decisive personality that makes them seem/be strong. But we are all the same and we can all make it on our own terms. No one can determine what is right or wrong for you or how you should feel. Don't put too much pressure on yourself and try to live life to the fullest.
P10: Practice listening to your thoughts; eventually, you'll be able to distinguish the rational from the irrational. Surround yourself with important people.
P11: Don't let it control you. Whether it's extreme/ongoing or situational. Find what works for you to calm yourself down. Also to understand
P12: You are not alone! manage it or try to find relief or it will take over your life.
Question 21: If you could give advice to another person who does NOT suffer from anxiety, what would you say?
P1: Don't be so quick to judge and dismiss someone with anxiety. It's a real thing.
P2: As for the people who don't have anxiety... I would tell them to just be supporting of those around them that do have anxiety. We already feel like we have no control. Don't make it worst for us like we are insane...
P3: Try to understand that this person may be dealing with something that isn't a big deal to you or anyone else but to the person suffering it is just that they feel like they are ''suffering'' Its hard for people with anxiety to open up and whatever they are anxious about could be out of fear or hurt so try to be patient and understanding...we are all humans people deal with things in their own way
P4: You're lucky.
P5: Don't be ignorant. Anxiety is as serious of a disorder as diabetes are.
P6: Don't judge those who do simply because you can't relate or understand exactly what they are going through. We all have struggled and dael with some issues that are unique to each of us. We should celeb at and support our differences and not be defined and segregated by them. Also if you know something may cause a person to have anxiety or an anxiety attack don't make a joke of it or pressure them about it. That only makes it worse and puts people in danger.
P7: Be happy that you don't have to go through what I've gone through. Keep doing what you're doing because it's obviously working.
P8: To some people, anxiety is not a real thing and "sufferers" exaggerate for attention. I would say to them that it's a legitimate condition and it's absolutely terrifying. If you know someone who has anxiety, please treat them with empathy and support them in finding a solution to their suffering.
P9: Remember that most people are walking blindly through life, feeling their way just the same as you and we can all make it through. Even those who seems to have it all together are really just individuals who have 1. experience and 2. may have a decisive personality that makes them seem/be strong. But we are all the same and we can all make it on our own terms. No one can determine what is right or wrong for you or how you should feel. Don't put too much pressure on yourself and try to live life to the fullest.
P10: Be patient.
P11: Understand that something small or irrelevant to you may be big and relevant to the person experiencing the anxiety. There's no need to down play anxiety so do your best to understand it or help the person that is experiencing that anxious moment.
P12:
Any blanks signify no answer given/participant forgot to answer
Please be respectful in the comment section, but I would love to hear if you, the readers, enjoy this type of thing. Leave your thoughts below and share this with others to help give non-sufferers an insider's look as well give the suffering perhaps some hope and comfort.
<3
-s
The women were simply told to answer the questions, no why or what would happen later.
The goal however on my end was to put together all the answers and show people with and without anxiety how it affects people differently as well as show the women suffering that they truly are not alone.
I also purposely waited over 15 months to reveal everything so that the participants can read their answers and realize how different things are from 15 months ago.
Here are the results. Names have not been added for privacy and confidentiality but no answer is altered in any way.
12 women participated. I will state the question and then provide the 12 responses.
Question 1: How often would you say you experience anxiety? Daily? Weekly? Explain.
P1: A few times a week I'll feel really panicky. It's usually brought on when I think about finances, the future of my career, etc
P2: The anxiety I feel hits me almost every day in some way. Most days it's when I'm at work and I'm alone and get busy. I feel as if I'll lose my job if everything isn't perfect, even though I know my boss understands.
P3: Only when I have exams or big decisions/important events
P4: Daily. I have obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.
P5: Daily. It used to be a few times a day, but treatment that I went through decreased the amount of anxiety I experience.
P6: Weekly. Different things may trigger an anxiety attack. I don't have continuous anxiety about all things. But more like a stressful event like realizing I forgot to do something, or if I over think something I am about to do I may have a panic/anxiety attack.
P7: I experience anxiety once every couple years.
P8: I experience anxiety at least once a month, typically around my menstrual. This makes me believe it is hormone-related.
P9: Only when something that makes me nervous happens or is close to happening. Ex: Doctors apts. Gun shootings. Deaths. Etc
P10: Depends. Some days I stress more than others, but probably daily.
P11: My anxiety is situational triggered only by certain/specific things. work related-maybe once a month or every other month. rarely while driving. about one a week or every two weeks.
P12: Daily- I am constantly anxious about school, every day.
Question 2: What is your DOB? (I'll only add ages to avoid revealing any identities)
P1: 27
P2: 27
P3: 25
P4: 23
P5: 25
P6: 27
P7: 21
P8: 25
P9: 26
P10: 25
P11: 27
P12: 24
Question 3: Define what anxiety is to you in your own words.
P1: The daily anxiety is faint and more manageable. The anxiety attack are different. It's a panic that you can't control. I can't stop my brain from thinking of worse and worse scenarios. My skin feels like it's crawling.
P2: Anxiety to me is losing all control. I already have a heart condition, so when my anxiety kicks in, it literally feel like a heart attack. I feel like I'm in a closed space, I can't breathe, I get dizzy, and lose feeling in my left side. It's the scariest thing ever. It's like you're dying, but you really aren't.
P3: Anxiety for me is this sudden rush of feeling where I feel hopeless and basically lose the ability to just stay calm. All the sudden my thoughts seem unreasonable and I catch myself doubting my own decisions and beliefs.
P4: Anxiety is this thick fog around me at all times. It's a feeling that I want to destroy, but am not capable of.
P5: Overwhelming feeling of fear that paralyze an individual from living normal life. Makes even the smallest problem become major life issue. Always worrying what will future bring and expecting worse.
P6: Really it is just a moment of rapid/difficult breathing, being light-headed/dizzy and needing to take a few moments to calm down. I have more anxiety attacks than continuous anxiety.
P7: Anxiety is what you feel when you are extremely over whelmed and you cannot seem to handle it.
P8: I define anxiety as a feeling of constant worry and uneasiness.
P9: Anxiety is an uneasy feeling that occurs when I get nervous about a situation or event that has or is to happen.
P10: The mental state of becoming overwhelmed by your thoughts and feelings to the point of it affecting the task at hand--both consciously and subconsciously.
P11: To me, anxiety is when something heightens all of one's senses and nerves. It makes one loose focus to concentrate on anything else besides what is triggering the senses (anxiety).
P12: Anxiety to me is feeling helpless. Feeling like you can't control the nerves in your head, always feeling anxious. I even get nauseous- especially before an exam. Anxiety is feeling like you can't sit still, your mind is racing at an accelerated speed and you don't know what's coming next. Almost like I'm trapped under water at times trying to get to the top to breathe.
Question 4: Would you say your thoughts cause anxiety?
P1: Absolutely. Sometimes my thoughts will kind of take off with the worst case scenarios and I'll feel my heart rate and breathing get faster.
P2: My thoughts don't necessarily cause my anxiety. Not unless I'm at work and I get behind on my duties, or I get into an argument with someone I care about. Then I start to think of all possibilities if what could happen, and I start to freak out..
P3: Yes more of less I also think it has to do with the circumstances surrounding the situation.
P4: Yes.
P5: Chemical imbalance in brain.
P6: Yes. I tend to over think or get myself worked up about things. And if I can't talk myself out of it then I will have an anxiety attack and like need to calm down drink water and try to talk to a friend or something.
P7: Generally speaking for others, I do believe that anxiety is caused by thoughts for most people. However, my anxiety was always from pain. If I had a really bad stomach ache or cramps, I wouldn't be able to handle the pain and so I would start breathing faster and faster and start hyperventilating, then I would break into an anxiety attack.
P8: I would say my thoughts worsen the anxiety, but not to cause it.
P9: Yes, sometimes.
P10: Yes.
P11: Most definitely. To think of something traumatic, whether it's something experienced or a fear, can cause anxiety.
P12: Yes definitely- I over analyze and think wayyyyyy too much
Question 5: Do you feel you lack control on situations? If so, explain. (Financial, personal growth, relationship, etc)
P1: I feel really out of control with my finances. I picked a career where I know I'll never make a lot of money and it makes me nervous constantly. My relationships have changed lately because I've also developed sole social anxiety. Sometimes when I'm out with friends all I can think about is going home where I'm comfortable.
P2: The only thing I lack control over is my financial status at the moment, but that's the one thing I know I will get better so I don't stress over it much.
P3: Lately/most of the time it's school. Recently, my relationship(s). But I know deep within that I can gain control and I need to remain calm and think of what is important because if I let my anxiety get the best of me then I won't be able to make rational decisions.
P4: Yes. There is nothing I can do without being worried the entire time. I am constantly lacking control financially, and in relationships I do not let myself have any control because I fear being alone, and if the other person controls everything I feel protected.
P5: I feel complete lack of control on situations before my treatment, now I can handle anything.
P6: Yes. If something is getting crazy like for instance not getting a paycheck in time when I have bills due will cause me to have an anxiety attack. I don't usually feel worried or anxious about it but then I just flip out and have an anxiety attack about it.
P7: I don't believe I lack any control in any aspect of my life that I choose to confront. Things I do not have control over, I just put them aside and I understand it's okay not to have control over everything in the world.
P8: I do feel a lack of control in situations, and I think this may be the root of my anxiety. This does not pertain to any particular situation. If I'm experiencing anxiety that day, everything feels "out of control" and uneasy. It makes me so nervous, like I'm on a constant free-fall.
P9: No, I feel secure with my decisions and personal growth right now. But I have felt anxious about some of those situations in the past. When job/intern searching, also when I began I was unsure of myself and was more cautious with how I acted and what I said etc. Now I am boss :)
P10: Sometimes, but probably not more than the average person feels.
P11: No.
P12:Yes I feel not in control when I'm anxious. I'm a very independent woman- I'm always in control (for the most part) but anxiety has this power over me to where I can't control my thoughts. Finances definitely cause me anxiety- I can't work while in school so on top of school anxiety I have anxiety about how I'm going to pay my bills? How many more loans to take out?
Question 6: Are you able to or unable to control your thoughts?
P1: I can't control my thoughts when I'm having an anxiety attack.
P2: I control my thoughts as best as I can. Most days are fine. Some days I don't want to leave my room because I'm so anxious about what could happen. It's like being trapped in a loop that only you can break..
P3: Sometimes I think it's hard for anyone to just control his or her thoughts without influence and it's especially hard when one is under pressure or has anxiety over a situation.
P4: With medication- yes. Without medication-absolutely not.
P5: Now I can as I was taught by a professional psychiatrist and therapist to do it. I was unable to do it before I have started my treatment.
P6: Most of the time I can talk myself out of worrying or overthinking things and just get it together. But sometimes and usually without warning something will make me have an anxiety attack.
P7: I'm more able to control my thoughts.
P8: I believe with a good distraction, it can help control my thoughts.
P9: Depends. If I am anxious about something I think about it a lot and go over scenarios in my head.
P10: Sometimes its easier than others.
P11: I am able to control them very much so.
P12: Sometimes I can control it- if I just really concentrate on my life as a big picture- I know it's not the worst thing that could be happening to me- sometimes it really is difficult though to get wrapped up in my thoughts.
Question 7: How do you treat your anxiety? If medication, what kind & how often is it taken? If not medication, what do you do?
P1: I can't afford to medicate my anxiety and depression anymore so I just deal with it as best as I can.
P2: I am prescribed to Celexa to treat my anxiety. I don't take my medication daily though. It causes me to have nightmares. I tried very low dosage of Xanax, but that stuff is horrible. It makes you feel like a zombie, and you don't care about anything. The celebs helps release serotonin in your brain which makes you happy. But most days I try to focus on the positives in my life, and I do a large amount of cleaning...cleaning helps me a lot. I feel like I can control my atmosphere.
P3: I just take deep breaths, pray, maybe talk to someone.
P4: I am on Zoloft, Seroquel and Ativan. The Zoloft is daily and the other two are whenever I feel I need them.
P5: Cognitive therapy + medication. My PTSD was treated with high dosage of Zoloft once daily.
P6: I usually will try to eat or drink water. Call someone I can trust and talk to them about whatever is making me panic. No medication, my doctors have offered it to me and said I could take it when I have an attack to help me calm down after. But I don't want to do that and feel like just talking to myself as crazy as that is and talking to others really helps- having a good support system of friens and family I trust is my medicine.
P7: I treat it by breathing very slowly in a situation where I feel as if I'm about to have an anxiety attack. That tends to calm me down and relax my heart rate.
P8: I don't take any medication to treat anxiety specifically; however, I am on a regular BC to regulate my hormones. If I'm feeling anxious, I try to watch a happy movie or listen to music to "drown" my thoughts. I've stopped following news channels, and as a result, I experience less anxiety per month.
P9: I remember that I am over reacting and life will go on so I have to push through and keep my head up.
P10: I don't treat with medication. I try to gauge my response to situations and realize what's causing it.
P11: Refocus, ground myself, make a to-do list, vocalize it if it's something that's bothering me.
P12: No medication- I've never seen anyone about it- I just run or talk to my friends/boyfriend to help keep my mind off of it.
Question 8: When do you remember that the anxiety began? Year?
P1: It began well I was still in college in 2009.
P2: I started having anxiety issues years ago. but over the past several months it has gotten to the point where I need help controlling it. It started in high school when I found out I had a heart condition. everything went downhill from there.
P3: It got pretty bad in 2013 when I started ______ school. it's a whole different world and it can sometimes feel overwhelming.
P4: Age 7.
P5: I have always been anxious of things.
P6: I have had anxiety attacks since I was 10 years old.
P7: First attack was in junior year of high school so like 2010.
P8: 2004 maybe. This was the year I began my period also.
P9: Let's just say fear of doctors, because that is what truly makes me anxious. I have always been nervous in that situation.
P10: I've had it as long as I can remember, even as a child I would worry about things other people didn't dwell on.
P11: I have no idea. Probably picked up more when I started working in this specific field where my decisions affect others' lives.
P12: High school- when my parents put me into college prep courses - it was very minor though- I got straight A', college was a little more challenging an I stressed and had anxiety- but I still got A's and B's - this school though- a whole brand new level of challenge I've never experienced before which in turn presents a whole new level of anxiety I'm trying to tackle.
Question 9: How often do you work out?
P1: I haven't worked out regularly in about four months.
P2: I try to work out as often as possible. since I work so much, I literally run around my store, and then I detail clean as much as possible to help burn fat as well. it works, I am down 20 pounds :)
P3: Sometimes a few times per week other times when I'm busy I'll go weeks without working out
P4: 3x a week
P5: depends.
P6: Not often, but if I have a panic attack or feel like I am going to have one doing cardio really helps.
P7: Once a month or so. I used to work out a lot, but I don't as much since I have more on my plate.
P8: On a good week, I work out at least 5 times a week; however, within the last two months I have worked out maybe once a week. My job also keeps me very active.
P9: Not often enough. If I get into a workout kick then a couple times a eek. But currently I have not been going to the gym.
P10: once a week
P11: 4-5 times a week
P12: My ____ School makes it hard- I went from 3-4 times a week to barely once a week
Question 10: Are you affected by societal influences? For example, if you see something new and "cool" do you feel you must have it?
P1: Yes, sometimes. It's normally based on societal expectations of how a woman should look. I think I feel pressured to wear make up a certain way, do my hair certain way, dresses certain way. It never used to be an issue because I loved being so unique.
P2: Nothing influences me. I don't care what other people wear, listen to, or look like. I'm always going to do my own thing, even if I freak out doing it.
P3: Of course it's human nature especially in this day and age to want and have the 'coolest' things. I try not to be materialistic but sometimes we all want things that we can't have or things others have.
P4: No.
P5: Not at all.
P6: Not societal influences in that way but like societal events or environments. so like I get major anxiety attacks around or in an elevator. even though I know it's not a big deal I can't help it.
P7: Sometimes I do I if it really draws my attention, but not for the sake of everyone else getting that 'new and cool' thing.
P8: Sometimes, it just depends on what it is.
P9: If I like it then I go for it and if I don't care, regardless of societal influences I won't bother.
P10: No.
P11: Not usually. I won't buy anything unless I become fond of it and am in the mood to explore and make a purchase.
P12: Not really- sure it's cool and I want it but I'm broke so I'm good lol I grew up frugal- my parents didn't always have the money to get us cool stuff- I grew up working for what I want
Question 11: Do certain people bring upon your anxiety?
P1: Yes. My mom gives me a lot of anxiety. She has such old-fashioned, foreign, religious views of what my life should be and I'm constantly disappointing her because of that. Also sometimes my boyfriend gives me anxiety because sometimes I feel like I'm not good enough for him.
P2: Dealing in customer service is hard. I try not to let people get to me, but when I have extremely rude people screaming at me, I kinda lose it. and if I work with one of my bosses, I really have anxiety. she pushes and pushes till I feel like I'm going to break. it stresses me out so bad, that I can't breathe, and I break out in hot flashes and I can't seem to cool off at all...it's horrible..
P3: Sometimes like I said it depends on circumstances
P4: Yes.
P5: Yes. People that reminds me of my mother or my former abuser.
P6: Not specific people. but being around a lot of people I know I need to impress can cause a panic attack.
P7: No. It's only pain physical pain.
P8:No, I'd say certain events or thoughts of death bring on anxiety.
P9: Yes. Clashing personalities. But I suppose that is just annoyance and everyone gets that way with certain individuals that have completely different personalities and morals etc.
P10: No.
P11: No.
P12: My parents - sometimes I don't feel like I'm making them proud- but that's a whole different can of worms
Question 12: What is your biggest fear?
P1: Failure
P2: Honestly, my biggest fear is I won't be able to get pregnant again... I lost my daughter 5 years ago next month when I was 5 months pregnant. me and my ex tried for 2 years to no avail...I just want to bring at least one child into this world so my dad can be a grandfather to them...
P3: Someone close to me passing away
P4: lacking love
P5: former abuser
P6: Being trapped in a small space that I can't escape
P7: losing the people I love
P8: Losing absolute control of my mind is my biggest fear.
P9: Other than being killed or family being killed I would say giving blood, surgery and hospital related activity.
P10: I don't know, maybe heights.
P11: Work related- missing something. Making a decision that may not be the best one because I missed that 'something' but in general getting struck by lightening. getting into a car accident and losing a loved one.
P12: Failing school and not having a career
Question 13: While driving if you feel anxiety starting do you feel the need to pull over?
P1: No, oddly enough driving is soothing
P2: I don't have a car right now, so I'm not sure how I would react if I ended up having an attack while driving. I would hope I would have enough sense to pull over, but sometimes you lose all sense when you're having an attack..
P3: This doesn't typically happen because when I am in the car and I feel stressed out I'll roll my windows down and put on music that only has religious music, it calms me down
P4: Sometimes, if it's a full panic attack
P5: I don't drive
P6: Yes. In my case only having panic attacks, I will pull over and try to calm down
P7: If I were to feel an anxiety attack coming as I was driving, I would most definitely pull over and call someone the moment I feel it coming so they can come by me. I'm unstable when it happens and it's so hard to stop it without someone there helping you.
P8: No, my anxiety is not that severe to where it affects my everyday life.
P9: I guess I don't have that bad of anxiety, thank goodness.
P10: No
P11: No. I just want to get to my location where there is no lightening. Lightening or almost getting into an accident are the only two things I'd allow myself to get anxiety over while driving.
P12: No, driving actually calms me
Question 13: Are you ever embarrassed about having anxiety?
P1: Yeah, I try to not tell anyone about it
P2: Sometimes I am embarrassed...people don't understand what it's like to feel like you have no control and you're in them is endless loop of fear. But at the same time, I look at my short life and realize I have been through more than most people twice my age...I'm lucky to have made it this far without getting completely crazy. I always try to push forward but it's hard..
P3:
P4: Yes, only a few people know I have it.
P5: no
P6: yes because people don't always get it. and I feel like it can be a weakness or like a secret I have and don't want others to see not capable of managing my emotions.
P7: Not necessarily, but when I do have an attack, and the people around me tell me to just stop, breathe normally, and to calm down I do get embarrassed because I physically cannot stop. And those who haven't experienced an anxiety attack don't understand the state of mind you are in and how hard it is to control.
P8: No
P9: Usually I am good to own up to my fears and I don't care who knows. Ex: I just had a talk with my boss's boss's boss about my fear of birthing children lol. So I am comfortable in my insecurities.
P10: No.
P11: No.
P12: yea sometimes
Question 14: Are you a mom?
P1: No
P2: No
P3: No
P4: No.
P5: No.
P6: No
P7: No.
P8: No.
P9: No (hence anxiety)
P10: No.
P11: No.
P12: Nope
Question 15: What is your race?
P1: Hispanic
P2: I'm classified as Caucasian on forms. I just call myself my name though, since I am basically a mutt of all European backgrounds and some native American blood.
P3: Asian
P4:White
P5: Caucasian
P6: White
P7: I'm middle eastern
P8: Asian/White
P9: White (native American- Blackfoot and Cherokee, Irish and I am sure a bunch of other stuff :)
P10: White.
P11: Eastern Indian
P12: Hispanic and White
Question 16: Have you lost a loved one to death?
P1: Yes
P2: I have lost a lot of people in my life growing up. From uncles and grandmother's to my mother..Honestly there are so many dates I don't really know where to begin...but my mom passed away in 2007
P3: Yes my grandmother
P4: No one extremely close to me
P5: No
P6: No
P7: No
P8: Yes
P9: Grandparents (one before his time/accident) and a relative (overdose...)
P10: No.
P11: Yes
P12:Nope
Question 17: Do you ever cry when you feel anxiety?
P1: Yes I cry during anxiety attacks
P2:
P3: Yes.
P4: Sometimes
P5: No
P6: Yes, I cry when having a panic attack
P7: I always cry whenever I have an anxiety attack. I cry from the fact I'm not in control of how I'm feeling. I cry because it feels like every single second during an attack is closer to me dying. That's exactly how it feels.
P8: No
P9: Sure do
P10: Sometimes.
P11: No.
P12: Oh yeah
Question 18: When and where do you feel safest?
P1: at home and at my boyfriend's house where I stay a lot
P2: I don't feel safe anywhere really.. being safe to me is being away from everyone. I live with my friend and her family and I sleep in a garage.. Until I get back on my feet this is as close to safe as I'm getting.
P3: I'm not sure, probably around my loved ones. I feel really safe around my parents...and their home... it must have something to do with a feeling like a kid again and knowing they are still there.
P4: When I am with someone I love with their arms wrapped around me.
P5: With my roommate/best friend and boyfriend in our apartment (not kidding)
P6: No where is safe from a panic attack. They can happen anywhere at any time. But I feel most safe and calm in my childhood home where I grew up.
P7: I feel the safest when I'm with my fiancé because I know he will always protect me and never let anyone or anything harm me in any way.
P8: During the day at home I feel the safest
P9: In my bed at my home, at my grandparents home and with my husband.
P10: With loved ones
P11: at home
P12: with family, boyfriend, friends
Question 19: Are you over weight?
P1: No
P2: I have been overweight my whole life. I did get down to the smallest I have ever been before, some years ago. but I was still considered over weight. I think those scales are wrong.
P3: No
P4: No
P5: No
P6: Yes, by about 50 pounds
P7: No.
P8: I was overweight, I'd say now I am not
P9: No
P10: No
P11: No
P12: not that I know of
Question 20: If you could give advice to another person who DOES suffer from anxiety, what would you say?
P1: Get medicated an find something that calms you
P2: I would tell someone who does have anxiety that they should always try to focus on some kind of positive. No matter how bad it is right now, yippy can make it better or worst. So focus on the btter, and don't let yourself stop you.
P3: It's important to take a step back, trust God, and just remain calm as possible... things aren't as bad as they seem in the moment so try to relax and focus on what is important because anxiety can make people do things they normally wouldn't do.
P4: Don't be afraid to take your medicine
P5: Go to therapy and do not be afraid of trying out medicine. you will not regret it as it changes life.
P6: You are not alone. I know how you feel. And keep working hard to over come and manage it. It's not a barrier just a challenge you can beat everyday.
P7: Take out all the negative energy in your life. Avoid people who bring negativity around you and always keep yourself busy so you don't have thoughts that lead to anxiety.
P8: I have a co worker who often suffers from panic attacks and anxiety. When this person has an episode I pull this person aside and try to assist with breathing. I try to tell this person it is all in the mind and it will pass. I tell this person they are not alone and many people experience the same thing. I then try to encourage this person to speak to a therapist because there's nothing to be embarrassed about. This person doesn't have the means to speak to a professional, so I have given advice about cutting out sugars and caffeine from diet.
P9: Remember that most people are walking blindly through life, feeling their way just the same as you and we can all make it through. Even those who seems to have it all together are really just individuals who have 1. experience and 2. may have a decisive personality that makes them seem/be strong. But we are all the same and we can all make it on our own terms. No one can determine what is right or wrong for you or how you should feel. Don't put too much pressure on yourself and try to live life to the fullest.
P10: Practice listening to your thoughts; eventually, you'll be able to distinguish the rational from the irrational. Surround yourself with important people.
P11: Don't let it control you. Whether it's extreme/ongoing or situational. Find what works for you to calm yourself down. Also to understand
P12: You are not alone! manage it or try to find relief or it will take over your life.
Question 21: If you could give advice to another person who does NOT suffer from anxiety, what would you say?
P1: Don't be so quick to judge and dismiss someone with anxiety. It's a real thing.
P2: As for the people who don't have anxiety... I would tell them to just be supporting of those around them that do have anxiety. We already feel like we have no control. Don't make it worst for us like we are insane...
P3: Try to understand that this person may be dealing with something that isn't a big deal to you or anyone else but to the person suffering it is just that they feel like they are ''suffering'' Its hard for people with anxiety to open up and whatever they are anxious about could be out of fear or hurt so try to be patient and understanding...we are all humans people deal with things in their own way
P4: You're lucky.
P5: Don't be ignorant. Anxiety is as serious of a disorder as diabetes are.
P6: Don't judge those who do simply because you can't relate or understand exactly what they are going through. We all have struggled and dael with some issues that are unique to each of us. We should celeb at and support our differences and not be defined and segregated by them. Also if you know something may cause a person to have anxiety or an anxiety attack don't make a joke of it or pressure them about it. That only makes it worse and puts people in danger.
P7: Be happy that you don't have to go through what I've gone through. Keep doing what you're doing because it's obviously working.
P8: To some people, anxiety is not a real thing and "sufferers" exaggerate for attention. I would say to them that it's a legitimate condition and it's absolutely terrifying. If you know someone who has anxiety, please treat them with empathy and support them in finding a solution to their suffering.
P9: Remember that most people are walking blindly through life, feeling their way just the same as you and we can all make it through. Even those who seems to have it all together are really just individuals who have 1. experience and 2. may have a decisive personality that makes them seem/be strong. But we are all the same and we can all make it on our own terms. No one can determine what is right or wrong for you or how you should feel. Don't put too much pressure on yourself and try to live life to the fullest.
P10: Be patient.
P11: Understand that something small or irrelevant to you may be big and relevant to the person experiencing the anxiety. There's no need to down play anxiety so do your best to understand it or help the person that is experiencing that anxious moment.
P12:
Any blanks signify no answer given/participant forgot to answer
Please be respectful in the comment section, but I would love to hear if you, the readers, enjoy this type of thing. Leave your thoughts below and share this with others to help give non-sufferers an insider's look as well give the suffering perhaps some hope and comfort.
<3
-s
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