Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of unease, worry or fear. It is the body’s natural response to perceived danger, and typically occurs when we feel under threat. It also tends to arise when we are nervous about certain events, such as interviews, exams or starting a new job. In those circumstances, anxiety can be helpful, as it keeps us alert and ready-to-act. However, if you find yourself in a constant state of worry in situations that don’t warrant it or in your everyday life, this could indicate an anxiety disorder.
When the feelings of worry become difficult to control and start to impair your day-to-day functioning, undergoing counselling and therapy can be very beneficial for managing these emotions.
What are some signs and symptoms of it?
Anxiety impacts people in different ways, and symptoms can vary person to person.
Psychological symptoms include but aren’t limited to:
- Excessive worrying and expecting the worst
- Feeling restless, on edge and unable to relax
- Having a sense of constant dread
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
Physical symptoms include but aren’t limited to:
- Being easily fatigued or drained from the anxious thoughts
- Muscle tension
- Difficulty sleeping or having a disrupted sleep
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Trembling or shaking
- Overly dry mouth
- Headaches
- Increased heart rate/heart palpitations
- Excessive sweating
How is it treated?
When it comes to treating anxiety, there is no one size fits all approach. Practising mindfulness, eating a healthy diet and living an active lifestyle are great ways to boost your general wellbeing. In terms of treatment, everyone is different. Some people respond well to medication, others respond well to counselling and therapy, and many find that a combination of the two works for them.
How we can help
At North East Counselling and Therapy, we offer a range of services to help treat anxiety disorders. A common form of psychotherapy that is especially effective is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, also known as CBT. CBT is a form of talking therapy that focuses on your thoughts and beliefs, and how the two can influence your feelings and actions.
Our qualified counsellors in Durham will work with you to unpack these thoughts and develop coping mechanisms you can utilise to reduce the stress anxiety creates.
The thought of starting counselling or therapy and talking to someone about the issues you are experiencing can be daunting. With this in mind, our practice is designed to ease all stress and apprehension. Our appointments are carried out in a comfortable and professional environment across our two locations in Durham.
Contact us to set up an initial 60 minute assessment session, where we will work together to identify which form of therapy is right for you.