Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising prevalence of anxiety disorders in China, highlighting personal experiences and societal misconceptions surrounding mental health issues. Group 1: Prevalence and Impact of Anxiety Disorders - Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issues in China, with an annual prevalence rate of 5.0% and a lifetime prevalence rate of 7.6% among adults [4] - As of 2021, the number of anxiety disorder patients in China reached 53.1 million, marking an increase of over 30% compared to 1990 [5] Group 2: Societal Misconceptions - There is a common misunderstanding that individuals with anxiety disorders lack resilience or social skills, which overlooks the societal factors contributing to mental health issues [3] - The societal perception of anxiety disorders often fails to recognize them as a product of the environment rather than solely individual experiences [3] Group 3: Personal Experiences with Anxiety - Individuals report that their anxiety often stems from overwhelming pressures, such as academic expectations and job-related stress, leading to a cycle of self-doubt and fear of failure [8][29] - The experiences shared illustrate how anxiety can manifest physically, affecting social interactions and daily functioning [15][17] Group 4: Coping Mechanisms and Recovery - Some individuals find that engaging in creative activities or changing their environment can help alleviate anxiety symptoms, suggesting that personal agency plays a role in managing mental health [20][37] - The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing the interplay between personal choices and external pressures in understanding and coping with anxiety [38][56]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the overwhelming pressure faced by a high school graduate in choosing a college major, highlighting the conflict between external expectations and personal interests [5][9]. Group 1: External Influences - The student experiences a barrage of opinions from parents, relatives, and a hired counselor, leading to confusion and anxiety about the decision-making process [1][5]. - Parents emphasize the importance of choosing a major based on job market trends and stability, while relatives suggest traditional and popular fields [2][3]. Group 2: Internal Conflict - The student struggles with identifying personal interests and fears making a choice that may lead to dissatisfaction in the future [4][6]. - There is a realization that past decisions were often made to meet others' expectations rather than personal desires, leading to a sense of lost identity [4][9]. Group 3: Decision-Making Strategies - The article suggests exercises to help the student reconnect with their true interests by reflecting on past enjoyable activities and potential career paths without external pressures [5][6]. - It emphasizes the importance of viewing career choices as flexible, allowing for exploration and adjustment rather than a one-time decision [8][9]. Group 4: Communication and Responsibility - The article encourages open communication with parents about the pressure felt from their expectations and the need for personal agency in decision-making [9]. - It highlights the significance of taking responsibility for one's choices, suggesting that true growth comes from navigating discomfort and asserting one's own path [9].