Anxiety is a hidden condition only really known to those suffering from it. Sufferers may seem completely ‘normal’ to others or even ‘just a little down’. However, left untreated, anxiety can become a real challenge.
So what is anxiety and when does it become a real challenge?
The symptoms of anxiety vary between people, some will only experience a few symptoms, while others will experience many. The important thing to note is not the number of symptoms, but their severity. Most of us will experience one or more of the following feelings or emotions during times of stress:
- Feeling frightened, nervous or in a state of panic
- Not feeling hungry – very little appetite
- Inability to concentrate – making mistakes and being forgetful
- Problems sleeping – being tired and irritable during the day
- Feeling light headed – inability to focus
- Heart races or feels like it’s thumping out of your chest
- Irritable bowels – stomach cramps, upset stomach
- Excessive worrying – turning things over in your mind all the time
- Controlling behaviour – the need to take control of situations or relationships
It may be that you can’t remember the last time that you felt relaxed. It may be that you seem to be constantly ‘on edge’.
This is called ‘General Anxiety Disorder’ and is a condition that causes you to feel anxious about anything.
Whether your anxiety is long-term or due to a recent stress period, you should seek help as soon possible.
Firstly, seek advice from your GP. Your GP may prescribe antidepressants or refer you to an NHS service. You may wish to seek in-person private help.
How will in-person therapy help?
In-person therapy will enable you to identify the issues that contribute to anxiety. The therapist will work with you to discover ways to cope with your feelings of anxiety. Together you will build tools to enable you to identify and combat an anxiety attack.
Don’t suffer with anxiety – get help. It may only take a few sessions and your mental health is worth it.
Jayne Jones
BSc(Hons) Psych (Open), Cert.Couns.Studies, S.N.H.S H.I.Dip. (Naturopathy)
