What is Anxiety?

 

We can all relate to having experienced anxiety at some point during our lives. It is a primitive, natural emotional response during moments of uncertainty and perceived danger. Anxiety is our body and mind's way of trying to keep us safe. In primitive times, anxiety helped humans be more alert and prepared to run, fight or stay very still (fight, flight or freeze) if threatened by a wild animal whilst out hunting. In our modern times, we do not have to worry so much about stumbling across a big wild cat. Instead, anxiety can present due to factors such as lifestyle, financial, relational, and environmental type pressures and challenges. In small amounts, anxiety can actually be helpful, keeping you alert and motivated. However, it can become overwhelming or persistent for some individuals and start to interfere with their daily lives. This makes it difficult for the individual to focus, sleep, or enjoy the present moment.

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 Anxiety can show up in different ways. You might experience excessive worry, restlessness, or a sense of dread, even when there's no immediate threat. Physically, it may feel like your heart is racing, you sweat excessively, your muscles are tense, or you struggle to catch your breath. Your thoughts can become intrusive, irrational, and it may feel impossible to stop worrying about the future or regretting the past.

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It's important to recognise that anxiety doesn't mean you're weak. It's simply a response shaped by your life experiences and biology. Life stressors, past trauma, or even changes in brain chemistry can all contribute to anxiety.

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 Managing anxiety begins with understanding, self-awareness and self-compassion. Grounding techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness can help you return to the present moment. Talking with someone you trust—whether a friend, family member, or therapist—can offer relief. In some cases, therapy or medication might also be useful in helping you feel better.

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You're not alone in this. Anxiety is something you don't have to simply endure. With the right support and strategies, you can regain a sense of balance and peace.

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How Can Counselling Help?

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Counselling can offer support to help you manage anxiety. Here are five ways it can help:

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1. Creating a Safe Space: In counselling, you'll find a non-judgmental, confidential space where you can openly discuss your fears and concerns. This safe environment helps you feel heard and understood, reducing the isolation that often comes with anxiety.

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2. Exploring Root Causes: A counsellor can help you explore what's driving your anxiety, whether it's past trauma, unresolved emotions, or deeply held beliefs. Understanding these underlying factors allows you to address them directly, which can lessen their emotional impact.

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3. Developing Coping Skills: Counselling teaches you practical tools for managing anxiety. These may include relaxation techniques, grounding exercises, mindfulness practices, and problem-solving skills, all of which help you handle anxious thoughts and physical symptoms in everyday life.

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4. Using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Many counsellors use CBT to help you identify and challenge the negative thoughts that fuel your anxiety. By changing unhelpful thought patterns, you can gradually reduce the intensity of your anxiety.

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5. Building Emotional Resilience: Counselling can help you build emotional resilience by shifting how you relate to anxiety. You'll learn how to tolerate discomfort, develop more self-compassion, and gradually face your fears in a controlled and supportive way, helping you feel more confident in managing anxiety in the future.

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Counselling helps you better understand your anxiety and gives you the tools and support you need to manage it, ultimately improving your quality of life.

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If you're struggling with anxiety and feel that counselling might help, then please don't hesitate to reach out to schedule your free initial call using the contact button below.

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