‘Anxiety is...’ – This mom’s brutally honest post will change the way you see anxiety

Fretting over finances, feeling a bit anxious about an upcoming job interview, or getting nervous about a social gathering is normal.

But for people who suffer from an anxiety disorder, the things mentioned above can be pretty overwhelming. They are often overcome with feelings of fear and uncertainty, which can often impact on their daily lives.

Brittany Nichole Morefield, from Nashville, US, who suffers from anxiety, shared her heartrending story on Facebook:

“Anxiety isn't just having a hard time catching your breath. Anxiety is waking up at 3 am from a dead sleep because your heart is racing. Anxiety is breaking out in a rash for no reason.

Anxiety is stressing over things that may or may not be real. Anxiety is questioning your faith. “How could my creator allow me to feel this way?”

Anxiety is calling your sister three hours before she gets up for work, in hopes she'll answer so that you can get your mind off the attack. Anxiety is taking a shower at 2 am. Anxiety is when your mood changes in a matter of minutes.

Anxiety is uncontrollable shaking and twitching. Anxiety is crying real and painful tears. Anxiety is nausea. Anxiety is crippling and dark.

Anxiety is having to make up excuse after excuse for your behaviour. Anxiety is fear. Anxiety is worry. Anxiety is physically and emotionally draining. Anxiety is raw. Anxiety is real.

Anxiety is a fight with your spouse, even though you're not mad at him. Anxiety is snapping at the smallest annoyance. Anxiety is flashbacks. Anxiety is "what if." Anxiety is a lot of "what's wrong" and "I don't know."

My advice to other people who suffer from the disorder is that your feelings matter. Just because you're bothered by something others aren't, doesn't make you crazy or worthless. Some of the most successful people in life have anxiety.

This is not your fault. This is not the end. You are strong. You are intelligent. You are brave. You are worthy.”

Get help: Visit Sadag’s website or call their mental health help line on 011 234 4837

Find a therapist near you: TherapyRoute