New research has revealed we could be more anxious than ever before, with the demands of modern life putting a strain on our mental wellbeing.
Researchers who carried out a detailed study found pressure at work, home and in our social lives has lead 40 per cent of the nation to now believe they suffer from some sort of anxiety.
More than one in five reckon they are now more fretful, edgy or tense than they were five years ago with health concerns their major worry.
Others have become more stressed about taking time off work, socialising, their finances and their career.
The study, by wellness brand Healthspan’s CBD oil (Cannibidiol) supplement, also found six in 10 of those suffering from anxiety have even sought medical advice from their GP.
Another six in 10 have turned to exercise to try and combat the issue, while 59 per cent reliant on medication and supplements, such as CBD oil.
Dr Jen Bateman a clinical psychologist on behalf of Healthspan says: ‘The rise in both social anxiety and anxiety is due to a range of factors.
“Our lives are becoming busier and can feel overwhelming – we’re constantly striving for more and better.
“Worldwide events are being streamed into the phone in the palm of our hands in our highly-connected digital worlds, and it’s challenging to ‘switch-off’, which our brains need to rest and stay calm.
“The constant stream of demands and data is overpowering for many, especially for those with a vulnerability to developing anxiety.”
The study also found 62 per cent of people believe life is becoming increasingly more anxiety-provoking with the average adult rating their anxiety levels at almost three out of five – with five being very severe.
One in twenty put their anxiety at a full five.
It also emerged anxiety sufferers will struggle four times a day with their condition, but more than three quarters will keep it quiet from others around them.
Anxiety has a huge effect on the lives of some sufferers though with almost one in 10 saying the condition led to them losing their job while another 19 per cent quit their role.
Sufferers have also seen others end relationships, lose friends, put on weight or avoid socialising.
Worryingly, the study, carried out via OnePoll.com, found many are suffering in silence with just 28 per cent admitting they feel comfortable talking to their friends or work colleagues about their anxiety.
Dr Sarah Brewer added: “A tsunami of anxiety is impacting all areas of people’s lives and health.
“Many are turning to products like cannabidiol to treat anxiety so it’s not surprising that CBD Oil is one of the fastest growing health trends.
“But the recent Government U-turn to legalise medical marijuana has left consumers confused and just one in 10 said they would know what to look for when buying a CBD supplement.
“As the market is becoming flooded with new products that look ethical but contain few active ingredients, it’s important to select a quality product.
“I recommend looking for a supplier who provides an independent analysis certification showing the actual level of CBD (which you want) and THC (which you don’t want) – products that simply claim to use ‘whole plant extract’ are misleading.
“You should also compare the actual milligram (mg) levels of cannabidiol (CBD) in the product and ensure the company is a member of the Cannabis Trade Association.
“Also, check with your GP or a pharmacist if you are taking prescribed medication, as CBD oil can interact with certain drugs, including those used to treat anxiety and depression.”
