Although I've written a few articles about the importance of living in the present moment, I find myself constantly living in and thinking about the future. I'm not talking about thinking and planning 24 hours ahead, but more so a few months and sometimes a few years ahead of where I am right now in life. The worst part is that they aren't all positive thoughts. If anything, I'm stressing myself out about what may or may not be when a certain point in my life is approaching. Honestly, this summer is just ending and I'm already concerned about internships and where I'm going to be next summer. I wish I could do as my close friend's say and "stop thinking so much." Unfortunately, it's not that simple. Why? Well it's called anxiety.

I believe that definitions are always helpful, and could be considered step one, in properly understanding something. For the purposes of this article, I'd like to begin by defining anxiety. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, anxiety is defined as: "an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs (as sweating, tension, and increased pulse), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one's capacity to cope with it."

Yet, even with knowing this definition it may be difficult for a person without anxiety to fully grasp the reality that comes with it. From a personal standpoint, I could describe it as constant worrying; becoming nervous and afraid of uncertainty, and having unfavorable thoughts about what lies ahead in the future. You may think, "But if that's the case then everyone has a little bit of anxiety!" However, having some worries about a certain outcome is child's-play in comparison to being plunged with the belief that not much good can come out of the future.

Now, don't get me wrong. I try to be optimistic when possible and when it's realistic. There is a difference between having anxiety and being pessimistic... one is a choice. A person with anxiety doesn't decide to become fixated and overwhelmed by uncertainty. They don't make the decision to believe that at some point in their life a majority of the relationships that they have with people they care about are going to come to an end because of a slip up. With anxiety, the simplest obstacle or any altercation in a relationship, educational or career situation, or in planning a day-to-day event, can cause an extreme amount of stress and unease within. As a result, the mind goes into overdrive trying to figure out what went wrong and how it can affect the handful of things down the line.

Living with anxiety isn't fun. In a sense, it's like constantly living on the edge of cliff, not exactly sure when you'll fall off. Some days are better than others. In having anxiety, it is important for others to understand that your friend who is doubting her abilities and worrying about the test she's taking tomorrow, or if people will show up to this party she planned and have fun, or if her boyfriend is mad with her, can't really control not letting uncertainty get the best of her. And lets be clear, it's not insecurity.

If you know anyone who struggles from anxiety the worse thing you could do is tell them to get over their constant concern. Sure, maybe you can't fully understand what's going on in their mind as it kicks into overdrive but I can ensure you that empathy goes a long way. The best thing you could do as a peer of someone with anxiety is to reassure, reassure and reassure. Although an anxious person struggles to think positively about situations, positive encouragement really helps. It is also important to listen to the person's worries. The list may sound unbelievable unrealistic to be considered a concern, but the more you listen and try to understand, the more comfortable and at ease they will be. A no judgement zone is the only environment that a person with anxiety should be in (believe me, they don't need an extra worry because of the judgement).

With anxiety, it's kinda hard not to sweat the small stuff. The mind seems to be thinking a million steps ahead. If you're someone who is in this boat, you're not alone. If you're simply a peer, well thanks for putting up with all of the overthinking and constantly supporting. Believe me, it never goes unseen.