Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It's a natural emotional response to stress and can occur in a variety of situations, such as before a big presentation, exam, or when facing a major life decision. While it’s normal to feel anxious from time to time, excessive or chronic anxiety can interfere with everyday life, making it difficult to manage daily tasks or enjoy usual activities.

Signs and symptoms of anxiety

Anxiety can present itself in many ways, and its intensity can vary from person to person.

Common symptoms include:

• Excessive worry: People with anxiety often find themselves worrying about things that may seem small or unlikely to happen, and this worry can be difficult to control.
• Physical symptoms: These might include a racing heart, dizziness, sweating, shortness of breath, or trembling.
• Restlessness: Individuals may feel constantly on edge or unable to relax.
• Difficulty concentrating: Anxiety can make it hard to focus, as the mind may be preoccupied with worries or fear of what might happen.
• Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep can be a common issue due to racing thoughts or feeling on alert.

How anxiety develops

Anxiety can develop due to a variety of factors. It may be triggered by stressful or traumatic experiences, such as a significant life change or a difficult event. Genetics can play a role, as anxiety disorders tend to run in families. Other factors, such as chronic stress, substance abuse, or environmental factors, can also contribute to the development of anxiety.

The impact of anxiety

Anxiety can have a significant impact on several areas of life, including:

• Mental health: If anxiety is not managed, it can lead to other mental health issues, such as depression or panic disorders.
• Relationships: Anxiety can make it difficult to maintain relationships, as individuals may struggle with social interactions or become overly reliant on others for reassurance.
• Work and study: Anxiety can affect performance at work or in academic settings, making it harder to focus, meet deadlines, or engage in group activities.
• Daily functioning: Anxiety can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming, like making phone calls, driving, or attending social events.

How to manage and treat anxiety

While anxiety is a natural part of life, there are effective ways to manage it.

Treatment often includes a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, medication:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety. It helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more realistic ways of thinking.
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety and promote calmness.
• Medication: In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines may be prescribed to help manage anxiety symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, good sleep hygiene, and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake can all contribute to reducing anxiety.

How we can help

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, support is available. Our experienced therapists can provide personalised treatment, combining therapy, coping techniques, and emotional support. We create a safe and understanding space to help you manage anxiety at your own pace. With the right help, it’s possible to reduce anxiety and lead a more fulfilling, balanced life.