Successful people suffer from anxiety disorders

At 48 years old, Hoang consoled himself with the belief that everything would be fine as he faced numerous psychological problems. However, he failed to realize that he was actually dealing with an anxiety disorder. Over the course of over a decade of running his own company, Hoang experienced many challenges and successes. As the business expanded and he had to travel more for work, he felt increasingly lonely and struggled in silence. He felt the pressure to always appear strong and prove his worth, despite his internal struggles.

As time passed, Hoang’s mental health deteriorated and manifested in physical symptoms like palpitations, forgetfulness, digestive issues, and frequent illness. He found himself starving, isolating himself in the dark, and turning to alcohol to cope with his emotions. Despite feeling empty and wanting to give up, he never opened up to anyone about his struggles, leading to further negative impacts on his health.

On the other hand, Huyen Trang, a 37-year-old KOL, found herself confined to her room for days on end, questioning whether she wanted to continue living. She sought solace in darkness, feeling a sense of comfort and companionship in the void. Trang admitted that despite appearing cheerful and happy on the outside, inside she battled with feelings of gloominess. She attempted to throw herself into work to combat her loneliness, but her mental state continued to deteriorate.

Both Hoang and Trang were diagnosed with anxiety disorders by a psychologist. Dr. Tran Thi Hong Thu, Deputy Director of Mai Huong Daytime Psychiatric Hospital, highlighted that successful individuals and those in high positions often neglect their mental health due to their busy schedules and constant pressure. The stress of striving for success can trigger mental health issues, even in those who outwardly appear put together.

Anxiety disorders are characterized by symptoms such as constant nervousness, difficulty concentrating, excessive worrying about others’ opinions, and self-doubt. These symptoms can often be hidden beneath a facade of normalcy, leading individuals to suffer in silence. Seeking help and practicing coping skills are essential in managing anxiety disorders and preventing further health complications.

Experts emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of anxiety and taking proactive steps to address them. Incorporating stress management techniques like meditation, exercise, healthy eating, hobbies, socializing, and volunteering can help individuals achieve a better balance in their mental health. In severe cases, seeking professional help from a psychiatrist for medication and behavioral therapy is recommended to address anxiety disorders effectively.