How to Cope with Anxiety: Symptoms, Treatment, and the Role of Family Members
Professor Katharina Domschke explains when it is necessary to seek help and how to properly support patients with anxiety disorders.
"Anxiety is a natural part of being human; it is a basic emotion," explains Prof. Dr. Dr. Katharina Domschke, Medical Director of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg. She emphasizes that anxiety is not something that you should simply "make go away", but is an alarm system that is vital for survival.
When does anxiety become pathological?
"Anxiety is pathological when it occurs too often, in situations where there is actually no danger, and when it is too intense," says the expert. This form of anxiety leads to considerable distress and can have an enormous impact on the daily lives of those affected.
Experience and symptoms of an anxiety disorder
People with an anxiety disorder experience symptoms similar to those of a real threatening situation. Prof. Domschke describes a typical panic attack: "The heart beats faster and louder, you feel sweat on your forehead, you have difficulty breathing and your face is clearly pale. Everything feels life-threatening." These symptoms are often so intense that those affected believe they are in acute danger. The first step towards treatment is therefore to recognize the anxiety as an illness and have it diagnosed by a specialist. The earlier the illness is treated, the better the chances of success.
Therapy approaches: From cognitive behavioral therapy to VR technology
The treatment of anxiety disorders is usually based on two pillars: psychotherapy and drug therapy. "Cognitive behavioral therapy is very focused on everyday life and is used in those situations that the patient fears in order to unlearn the anxiety step by step, so to speak," explains Prof. Domschke. This can be supplemented by drug therapy with modern antidepressants, which are not addictive and do not change the personality.
Virtual reality (VR) is also used as a therapy method at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg. In this approach, patients wear VR glasses and are safely exposed to anxiety-inducing situations, such as heights, social interactions, or fear of spiders, allowing them to gradually learn how to manage these fears.
Self-help measures: Actively combating the fear
Those affected can also take action themselves to overcome their anxiety. "Stress reduction and sleep hygiene are very important," advises Prof. Domschke. Regular exercise and relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and autogenic training are also effective ways of reducing anxiety. These measures can often be enough to get the onset of anxiety disorders under control.
Support from family members
Family also plays an important role in supporting people with anxiety disorders. "Relatives should recognize the disorder and understand that comments like 'pull yourself together' are counterproductive," emphasizes Prof. Domschke. Instead, they should demonstrate patience and understanding, encouraging those affected to seek professional help. It is essential to lower the barriers to seeking assistance and to reduce stigmatization.
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