Anxiety has become one of the most common conditions of the 21st century. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that more than 300 million people in the world suffer Anxiety disordersand the figure is increasing. Why do so many people live with this Emotional load?
Several cultural, social and technological factors help explain this growing trend, as well as individual and collective strategies to face it.
Global phenomenon with cultural roots
Although anxiety is a natural response from the organism in situations of danger or stresswhen it becomes chronic and interferes with daily life, it becomes a problem of Mental health In recent decades, a sustained increase in cases in different regions of the world has been observed, especially in urban and technologized contexts.
“In its acute form, it is useful: it keeps us alert, focused and allows us to act quickly in complex situations. However, when this response becomes chronic or activated without real danger, it can generate significant discomfort and interfere with our daily routine,” says Carolina Vásquez, a psychologist.
The increase in cases of anxiety is not necessarily related to greater emotional weakness, but to environmental conditions. Contemporary life, especially in urban contexts, exposes people to a constant accumulation of accelerated stimuli, demands and changes, which can exceed the natural ability to adapt the human being.
“This constant pressure because it is productive, efficient and successful can generate a difficult emotional overload,” adds the professional.
To this is added the impact of social networks, which according to a study published in Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology (2018), are directly related to the increase in anxiety and depression symptoms, especially among young people. Permanent exposure to unreal standards of beauty, success and happiness can intensify the feeling of insufficiency and generate destructive comparisons.
Emotional isolation and lack of pause
Another relevant aspect is emotional disconnection. Although the digital world facilitates communication, it can also weaken significant links. People talk more, but they feel less listened to. In many cases, spaces to express emotional discomfort are scarce or shallow.
“From humanistic psychology, it is argued that the human being needs authentic contact, belonging and emotional validation to develop in a healthy way. The absence of these elements contributes to diffuse discomfort, which is often manifested as anxiety,” explains Carlos de León, clinical psychologist.
Likewise, the lack of pause and rest is another frequent trigger. Constant acceleration prevents processing, recognizing emotions or simply being present. The mind is accustomed to permanent activity, and when there are no external stimuli, intrusive thoughts or anticipatory concerns arise.
How to face anxiety
Facing anxiety implies, above all, to understand it. It is not about eliminating it, but about regulating it and giving it a functional space. Clinical psychology experts recommend several effective strategies:
- Individual psychological therapy, especially those of cognitive-behavioral guidance, helps identify and modify dysfunctional thinking patterns.
- Emotional self -regulation practices, such as conscious breathing, meditation and mindfulness, favor the balance of the nervous system and increase body awareness.
- Establish limits and routines, to reduce overexigence and recover rest spaces and enjoyment.
- Promote quality links, prioritizing authentic relationships that provide emotional containment.
- Accept uncertainty, understanding that absolute control over the future is not possible, and that part of the well -being lies in learning to inhabit the present.