There is a common joke in Brazil that everything can be postponed until after Carnival. Indeed, many people procrastinate on commitments and resolutions at the beginning of the year. The problem is that the behavior generates anxiety.
According to the World Health Organization, 9.3% of Brazil's population suffers from anxiety, placing the country in first place in the ranking of the most anxious countries. “We are talking about a mental disorder, that is, a disease that affects a large part of the population and significantly reduces people's quality of life,” comments Ariel Lipman, psychiatrist and director of SIG – Residência Terapêutica.
Mental disorders can be serious if not monitored and treated. But there is another aspect of anxiety, in which it is considered “temporary” and not a disease. “Everyone experiences anxiety-inducing situations, and it is normal, for example, for someone not to be able to sleep before an important test,” comments the expert.
After all, how normal is anxiety?
“Normal anxiety,” or rather non-pathological anxiety, is part of anyone’s life, and causes symptoms, according to Lipman, such as dilated pupils, increased heart and breathing rates, and even insomnia.
“The symptoms are the same as those of pathological anxiety, what changes is the intensity and frequency. He explains that our body has limits, and if negative symptoms begin to appear regularly, it is necessary to seek help.
In other words, when these changes become part of a person's life too frequently, in an intense and long-lasting way, disrupting their quality of life, this may indicate a mental disorder.
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Causes and symptoms
There are several causes for anxiety, which can occur as a result of family problems, brain imbalance, psychological trauma, and others. Symptoms also vary and can be both physical and psychological.
“These patients may experience muscle tension, tachycardia or palpitations, chest pain, excessive sweating, headache, or dizziness, as well as a feeling of derealization, when the environment seems completely different, or a feeling of depersonalization,” When a person doesn't seem to feel 'comfortable. Learn more,” concludes the psychiatrist.
He warns that it is essential to always be aware of these signs and, if necessary, seek professional help as soon as possible.
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Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.