I think we use and hear the word ANXIETY a lot! But do we know what it actually is? Would we recognise the symptoms in ourselves or our loved ones? Here are 5 simple points that will take us back to basics and help you do exactly that.
What is anxiety? It's what we feel when we're tense worried or afraid. It can show up in our emotions we may find ourselves feeling on edge, nervous unable to switch off or it can turn up as physical sensations. It is a natural human response but it should only be temporary. If we experience it frequently it can be really disruptive to our daily lives.
Forms of anxiety? Anxiety is actually an umbrella term and it describes a number of conditions such as;
GAD - Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety
Panic Disorder
Phobias
PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Symptoms of anxiety - Anxiety can show up in our feelings and emotions, a general sense of worry. But it can also arise as physical symptoms. This can be confusing and frightening to experience and you may not even realise its anxiety.
Some of the most common physical symptoms are;
Palpitations /racing heart
Changes in breathing, maybe you feel like you can't catch your breath.
Shaking and dizziness
Headaches
Stomach problems and IBS
Using the loo more
Not being able to sleep
What causes anxiety? Anxiety can show up in many ways and varies from person to person but these 4 things can make you more prone to it.
Past or childhood experiences such as losing a parent or being bullied as a child
Current life situation, stress at work, relationship problems can exacerbate things
Physical and mental health problems - a long term health diagnosis for example
Drugs, alcohol and medication. Recreational drugs and alcohol can make anxiety much worse so its worth considering these factors.
What help is available? Important to end on a positive note there is very much light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to anxiety.
If you see you GP they may prescribe medication particularly SSRI's or talking therapy. The NHS mainly uses CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) but it is worth exploring different types to see what works best for you.
I personally overcame anxiety working with a hypnotherapist, and have seen the same transformation with my own clients. Hypnotherapy is a safe and effective form of therapy that can aide with relaxation as well as getting to the root cause of the anxiety and replacing it with reduced stress levels, improved confidence and self esteem. Specifically hypnotherapy works with our subconscious mind this is key as anxiety is a subconscious process - no one decides consciously to feel anxious! Hypnotherapy can help us tap into this part of our mind and make positive changes that last.
If you would like to know more about how hypnotherapy could help you overcome anxiety please drop me a line.
Liz x