Mental Health Series: Anxiety

In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety has become a common experience for many people. From work pressures and personal responsibilities to challenges posed by modern technology, anxiety can manifest in various ways and impact every aspect of our lives.

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or potential threats. It is a normal part of life and can even be beneficial as it prepares us to face challenging situations. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, and disrupts daily functioning, it can develop into an anxiety disorder. Common types of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias.

Anxiety can be triggered by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. In this rapidly evolving digital age, technological advancements have brought about convenience and incredible opportunities. This era has revolutionized how we live, work, and communicate. Smartphones, social media platforms, and instant access to information have changed the way we interact with the world. However, alongside its benefits, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of anxiety. Continuous connectivity, information overload, and the pressure to maintain a curated online persona have created a unique set of challenges for individuals in the digital era.

For individuals with anxiety disorders or severe anxiety, seeking professional help is crucial. While occasional anxiety is normal, persistent and excessive anxiety should not be ignored. By understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and employing effective management strategies, individuals can gain control over their anxiety and lead satisfying lives. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are now many resources available to support those on their journey to overcome anxiety.

This course explores anxiety disorders as one of the common mental disorders. It is part of the Wellbeing Campus program organized by the Health Promoting University (HPU) at Gadjah Mada University in collaboration with the Center for Public Mental Health (CPMH) at the Faculty of Psychology, UGM. The primary goal of this course is to enhance literacy regarding anxiety disorders, as well as preventive and curative efforts related to anxiety disorders.