Anxiety

Anxiety can mean nervousness, self-doubt or worry. It can make you imagine things are worse than they really are and, unlike stress which is something that will come and go, anxiety can affect a person even if the cause is unclear.

Under stress, our ‘fight or flight’ response will turn on which releases adrenalin into the body to prepare itself for what it perceives as imminent danger; the pupils may dilate, the skin may turn pale, your heart rate and breathing may increase, you may also start trembling and feel like you have ‘butterflies in the stomach.’ 

Anxiety, however, may cause this response at inappropriate moments. You may have this feeling during normal, non-threatening situations.

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Signs of Anxiety may include:

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Psychological symptoms

Restlessness
Sense of dread

Irritability
Difficulty concentrating
 

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Physical symptoms

Dizziness
Palpitations
Trembling
Excessive sweating
Shortness of breath
Insomnia

 

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How can counselling help me

Talking to a counsellor can help in many ways, including helping you understand what may be causing your anxiety, and teaching you coping techniques so that you can manage your feelings before they become too severe. The most commonly prescribed is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) but being patient and keeping open communication with your Counsellor is the best way to figure out the plan best for your individual needs. 

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