Anxiety

Anxiety is a feeling of unease; it is a normal reaction to stressful situations. Most of us will experience anxiety at some point in our lives. Situations such as exams or job interviews may cause us some anxiety. Or it could be a reaction to a dangerous or difficult event.

When anxiety becomes excessive and interferes with normal life it may be linked to other disorders such as depression. It often manifests as an overwhelming and disabling worry that takes over the person’s life.
 

There are three main types of anxiety:

• Generalised anxiety
• Phobias
• Panic disorders

Symptoms:

There are many physical and emotional symptoms connected to anxiety and these can be very unpleasant and frightening:

Physical:

• Palpitations
• Cold sweats
• Shortness of breath
• Trembling
• Chest pain
• Tummy pain
• Diarrhoea
• Dry mouth

Emotional:

• Loss of appetite
• Sleeping difficulties
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Poor concentration
• Anger or irritability
• Fear of losing control and going mad
• Fear of dying

Causes:

• Stressful events, trauma and illness may trigger anxious feelings.
• Physical illness such as thyroid disorder.
• Mental health: depression, alcohol dependency, drug addiction.
• Anxiety and depression may run in families as a result of learnt behaviour.

Seeking help

If your symptoms are severe and causing you concern you should consult your GP. Your doctor will look at the physical and emotional symptoms that may be causing the anxiety. In some cases he/she may prescribe medication. Counselling may help you face your fears by finding ways to overcome and manage this condition. It can also help you look at the triggers to stress and how to protect yourself in future.

Content written by Karen Dyer MBACP in 2010. The content is for general information only and may or may not relate to your individual situation. Lakeside counselling Weston Super Mare