Waking up, and walking out to either school or work might be simple for most of us. But for about 4% of the global population, this is a daily struggle. It presents itself in different forms; social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, phobias irrational fears, etc.

Let me share the story of “A”, “A” was generally considered to be a shy person who more often than not would keep to himself. For a long time he hid behind that mask, but he soon realized he is comfortable around people is familiar with. But “A” general gets anxious when there is a shift in his daily schedule/routine or when someone new joins in a group plan etc. The “shyness” introduced “A” to a new buddy, insomnia, his situation became worse making him to sought medical attention. It was then revealed that “A” had social anxiety.

“Anxiety is the fear more often than not of the unknown. Fear of the unknown implies I am anxious, I am fearful but I don’t know exactly why I am feeling the way I am feeling. Or even if I am fearful of a certain situation. Then that fear is beyond what is expected in a normal situation.” Prof David Ndetei.  According to World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that 264 million adults around the globe have anxiety. Of these adults, 179 million were female (63%) and 105 million were male (37%). (Our World in Data, 2018)

Well, the human social fabric has been strained and pulled at all levels leaving dents in the once “silky smooth association.” Mental health is slowly becoming a greater public health issue. The best way to uproot a weed is when it’s fresh, the same applies to mental health the onsite of early signs one should seek treatment. They say your health is your wealth, this has been proven true as 1 trillion USD is used globally, every year in the treatment of anxiety and depression.

If you can’t explain how you are feeling or if you are ashamed of how you feel, seek help. You don’t have to struggle in silence as you are not alone.