Overcoming Distrust: Anxiety and Its Impact on Daily Life

Q: Overcoming Distrust: Anxiety and Its Impact on Daily Life

Hello： After watching the news about fraud incidents, your awareness may have increased, but you might also realize that you are perhaps worrying too much. <br>If you do not experience any fraud over time, your mood will gradually return to normal. <br>Sometimes, excessive worry

Unable to make judgments based on common sense?

Hello, doctor.
I handle matters very cautiously, always checking and rechecking after completing tasks.
However, in recent years, with the frequent news about scams, I have started to become distrustful of society.
I constantly feel that the people I interact with are trying to deceive me.
Additionally, when I am online, I often worry about whether my personal information might be leaked.
Even when shopping online, I cancel transactions out of fear that I might be charged without my knowledge.
I am filled with negative emotions and find it difficult to judge situations with a rational mindset.
I feel that everywhere outside my home is unsafe.
Could you please tell me if I am experiencing a medical condition? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/31

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: After watching the news about fraud incidents, your awareness may have increased, but you might also realize that you are perhaps worrying too much.
If you do not experience any fraud over time, your mood will gradually return to normal.
Sometimes, excessive worry stems from the fear of worrying too much, which can lead to a cycle of endless concern.
It is advisable to redirect your attention to things that interest you more to dilute this worry and break free from this cycle.
If there is no improvement, it is recommended to seek medical assistance.

Reply Date: 2016/08/31

More Info

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by anxiety, especially in today's world where news about scams and data breaches is prevalent. Your concerns about trust and safety are valid, and many people experience similar feelings in response to societal changes and personal experiences. Let's delve into the nature of anxiety, its impact on daily life, and some strategies for overcoming these feelings.

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, and it can manifest in various ways, including excessive worry, fear, and distrust. When you mention feeling cautious and checking things repeatedly, it suggests that you may be experiencing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or perhaps even a specific anxiety related to trust and safety. This heightened state of vigilance can be exhausting and can interfere with your daily life, making it difficult to engage in normal activities without fear or suspicion.

Your feelings of distrust towards others and the world around you can stem from a combination of personal experiences and societal influences. The constant barrage of negative news can create a sense of hyper-vigilance, where you feel the need to protect yourself from potential harm. This is a common reaction, but it can lead to a cycle of anxiety that is hard to break. You may find yourself second-guessing your interactions, avoiding social situations, or even withdrawing from activities that once brought you joy.

It's important to recognize that while these feelings are common, they can also be indicative of an anxiety disorder that may benefit from professional intervention. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your anxiety effectively. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders, as it helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs. Through CBT, you can learn to reframe your thoughts about trust and safety, gradually reducing your anxiety.

In addition to therapy, there are several self-help strategies you can employ to manage your anxiety:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you stay grounded in the present moment, reducing feelings of anxiety about the future. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and body.

2. Limit Exposure to Negative News: While it's important to stay informed, constantly consuming negative news can exacerbate feelings of distrust and anxiety. Consider setting boundaries around your media consumption and focusing on positive or neutral content.

3. Challenge Negative Thoughts: When you find yourself thinking negatively about others or situations, try to challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself if there is evidence to support your fears or if you are jumping to conclusions. This can help you develop a more balanced perspective.

4. Build Trust Gradually: Start by engaging in small, low-risk social interactions. This could be as simple as chatting with a neighbor or participating in a community event. Gradually increasing your social exposure can help rebuild your sense of trust in others.

5. Establish a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand your feelings. Sharing your concerns with trusted individuals can provide relief and help you feel less isolated.

6. Consider Professional Help: If your anxiety continues to interfere with your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide tailored strategies and support to help you navigate your feelings of distrust and anxiety.

In conclusion, while your feelings of distrust and anxiety are understandable given the current societal climate, it's essential to address these feelings constructively. By employing self-help strategies and seeking professional support, you can work towards overcoming your anxiety and rebuilding a sense of trust in yourself and others. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you find peace and stability in your life.

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