anxiety
Many people experience anxiety at some point in their lives; in fact, anxiety is a very normal response to stressful life events like moving, changing jobs or financial troubles. However, when symptoms of anxiety begin to interfere with your life and are persistent, they could be signs of an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders can be debilitating, but they can be managed with proper help from a counsellor. Recognising the symptoms is the first step and while everyone experiences anxiety differently, here are some common signs and symptoms;
SYMPTOMS:
Muscle tension
Easily startled
Restlessness
Irritability
Elevated breathing and heart rate
Hot flushes or cold chills
Trembling
Feeling dizzy or faint
Sleep difficulties
Excessive sweating
Chest and abdominal pains
Issues with memory and concentration
FEELINGS & THOUGHTS:
Frequent feelings of tension and uneasiness
Feeling overwhelmed by thoughts and feelings
Worrying about feeling anxious (rumination)
Catastrophising about ‘what if’s.’
Dread and unease
Unwanted, intrusive thoughts and images
Fear of losing control, passing out or dying
HOW CAN COUNSELLING HELP?
A counsellor can help you identify the underlying factors associated with your anxiety, aid you in understanding symptoms and behaviours and provide you with strategies and tools to bring about long term change.
