Anxiety is a feeling that we all have, a feeling that is triggered when we feel threatened. There are many signs that indicate that we might be feeling anxious, these include; an increased heart rate, needing to go to the toilet more often, worrying a lot, a feeling of dread, wanting to run away and avoid situations, muscle tension, dry mouth, sweating, shallow breathing etc.
Feeling anxious from time to time is a normal part of life. Anxiety is a natural response that helps protect us when we feel threatened. However, when feelings of anxiety become frequent, overwhelming or occur without any obvious danger, they can begin to affect our relationships, work, confidence and overall wellbeing. Counselling and psychotherapy can help you understand the causes of your anxiety and develop healthier ways of coping.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling that we all experience when we perceive a threat. It can affect both the mind and the body. Common signs of anxiety include an increased heart rate, frequent trips to the toilet, excessive worrying, a feeling of dread, wanting to avoid situations, muscle tension, dry mouth, sweating and shallow breathing. Although anxiety can feel unpleasant, it is part of our natural fight-or-flight response and is designed to help keep us safe. Difficulties arise when we experience anxiety too often or in situations where there is little or no actual threat.
How can anxiety affect people?
Anxiety can affect every person differently. For some people it is a constant background worry, while for others it may appear suddenly in response to particular situations. Anxiety can have a significant impact on everyday life, relationships, work and confidence, and may be linked with several different conditions.
What causes anxiety?
There is no single cause of anxiety. Each person’s experience is unique, shaped by their relationships, life experiences and individual circumstances. Understanding your own anxiety is an important part of therapy, although there are a number of common factors that may contribute to anxiety developing.
Common contributing factors
Common factors that may contribute to anxiety include stress at work, bullying, experiences of separation or loss, the messages we receive from parents or caregivers about ourselves and the world around us, insufficient emotional support during childhood, suppressing or bottling up emotions, experiences of abuse, major life changes, and traumatic experiences that have overwhelmed our natural ability to cope.
How can psychotherapy help with anxiety?
Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore your anxiety in greater depth and understand how past experiences and relationships have influenced the way you respond to situations today. Therapy can help you develop greater insight into the causes of your anxiety, build tolerance for difficult thoughts and feelings, and gradually face situations that have become associated with fear or avoidance. As confidence grows, many people find they feel better equipped to cope with life’s challenges.
Finding the right support
Effective therapy takes place within a safe, supportive and confidential relationship where you feel able to explore your experiences openly. All therapists at Hitchin Counselling and Psychology are professionally trained and accredited, providing experienced, ethical and compassionate support. You can be confident that your therapist will respect your privacy, safeguard your wellbeing and work alongside you at a pace that feels right for you.
Common anxiety-related difficulties include:
- Social anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Phobias
- Health anxiety
- Stress
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)