Getting to Know Anxiety in Men

Anxiety can impact anyone, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, race or gender. Being an adult and functioning in today’s society can be overwhelming. With so many demands and requests placed upon people it is no wonder that anxiety is growing at an alarming rate. Symptoms of anxiety differ from person to person, though there are some common differences that can be seen between genders. Society does place different stereotypes and expectations on men that will of course impact the way they feel and express different things. Unfortunately, even today, many men are viewed as having to be the “strong one” or “the breadwinner” in their families. These types of unfair expectations can lead to worry and anxiety.

Research has shown that many men place a large emphasis on accomplishments as a way of measuring self-worth. Due to this work, and one’s perceived level of competence there, can also be a large source of anxiety for many men. Other responsibilities and relationships may take a back seat causing additional conflict.

What Can Cause Anxiety in Men?

Statistics do show that anxiety is more prevalent among women with two out of five women experiencing anxiety compared to one out of five men. Through the biological looking glass, experts argue that men are less susceptible to anxiety because they have higher levels of testosterone.

Dr. Mohamed Kabbai from Biomedical Sciences and Neurosciences at Florida State University states that, “this hormone enhances the function of the neurotransmitters/brain chemicals. It reduces the activity in the brain area that regulates the “fight or flight” response system. It also modulates the release of the stress hormone.

While higher levels of testosterone may make one less biologically predisposed to anxiety, this hormone hardly makes men immune. Many men still experience a great deal of anxiety. Common factors that may lead to anxiety in men include concerns in employment, business troubles, health concerns, relationship conflict, loneliness and abuse of substances. Susceptibility to anxiety can also peak in certain periods of a man’s life including puberty, the end of romantic relationships, becoming a father, retirement, and/or during transitional periods. Being in between jobs or a toxic work environment are both major factors that can create a great deal of anxiety.

What Are Symptoms of Anxiety?

The term “anxiety” is used frequently and not always in reference to clinical symptoms. Many might associate anxiety with having “butterflies in your stomach” or common worries. The feeling of worry and being nervous are natural, they happen to almost everyone and are not necessarily indicators of an anxiety disorder. Panicking to some extent is also natural for anyone, including men. When the reactions to fear and certain situations become extreme and begin to impact activities of daily living you may be experiencing clinically significant anxiety.

Anxiety impacts an individual’s fight or flight response. Symptoms of anxiety can both be observed physically and emotionally. Better Health shares some common signs and symptoms.

The physical symptoms of anxiety can include:

  • pounding or racing heart
  • excessive sweating
  • muscle tension
  • restlessness or agitation
  • dizziness and vertigo
  • shortness of breath or choking sensations
  • insomnia
  • panic attacks.

Emotional signs of anxiety may include:

  • constant worry about what could go wrong
  • feelings of dismay
  • concentration problems
  • avoidance
  • catastrophic thinking
  • irritability or edginess
  • being overly vigilant toward danger
  • absentmindedness
  • fear of losing control

The Effects of Anxiety

Anxiety can cause individuals to question their strength and fortitude. Low self-confidence and feelings of shame can intensify when anxiety is experienced. Feeling unable to perform responsibilities and be an active participant in relationships can take a toll on anyone, men included. Men who have anxiety often report difficulty identifying what they are feeling as anxiety which can result in denial and avoidance of treatment.

Difficulty identifying anxiety symptoms and a tendency to avoid or self-medicate with substances can cause symptoms to worsen. Stereotypes toward men can leave some feeling too embarrassed to talk about their feelings. When these emotions are bottled up, they have nowhere to go and are often expressed as frustration and anger, further delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Take Pride in Seeking Treatment

Feeling anxious is not something to be embarrassed about. Denial will always be an obstacle in winning the battle against anxiety. Your symptoms can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Therapy can help.

Symptoms of anxiety left untreated will often worsen, early intervention often leads to a better prognosis. It pays to believe in yourself, to take care of your emotional health as you would your physical health. Like any condition, anxiety must be properly diagnosed by a professional. Seeking treatment early can lead to an early recovery.

Carolina Counseling Services – Cameron, NC contracts with independent, licensed therapists who know how to treat anxiety. Anxiety can be powerful, but you are not powerless. Call today to schedule your first appointment!

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