Anxiety is part of the body's hard-wired fight-or-flight response, which prepares us to act quickly in the face of danger. It is a normal reaction to unfamiliar or challenging circumstances. However, when anxiety is persistent or out of proportion with life events it can impede everyday activities and undermine wellbeing. All of us experience stress and can benefit from developing healthy stress-response skills, such as those described under Be Well. However, if stress or anxiety become overwhelming and begin to have a negative impact your life, it may help to speak to a counselor or other professional resource.
Recognize
- Wound-up, tense, or restless
- Stress, anxiety and worry are more than expected for the situation
- Difficulty controlling worry or anxiety
- Easily fatigued or worn-out
- Muscle tension
- Difficulty concentrating
- Repetitive or obsessive thoughts and difficulty “letting things go”
- Irritable
- Difficulty relaxing and sleeping
- Avoid particular situations, places or things that cause anxiety
Resources
On Campus (413-542-extension)
- Center for Counseling and Mental Health x2354 (confidential)
- Dean of Students Office x2337
- Health Education x2760 –for information and educational programs
- Relaxation practices and resources