It’s completely normal to experience anxiety from time to time. We all do. And while it can feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this journey.
I’ve had the privilege of helping many people navigate through their anxiety so I’m sharing my knowledge and experience with you so you can start to understand and explore your own feelings.
I’d like to tell you about a client – I’ll call them Sam: Sam was struggling with intense anxiety. They felt like anxiety had a hold over them and their life. But together, we started to work through it. We discovered strategies that resonated with Sam, and gradually, these feelings began to subside.
Today, Sam is living a fulfilling life, and the anxiety that once seemed so overwhelming is no longer an issue. Don’t get me wrong, of course they feel anxious from time to time, as everyone does, because in some situations (a job interview, a serious illness etc) this is a perfectly normal, temporary response. However, the unnecessary and irrational anxiety about work, your boss, socialising, health, thoughts or sleep etc, is no longer an issue.
So, let’s embark on this journey together by answering some of those burning questions.
So What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived threats. Although there are some common sensations such as racing heart and breathlessness it often can be a completely different experience for everyone. It’s a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe. Anxiety is a normal part of life but chronic anxiety can interfere with your daily activities and overall well-being.
Common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep disturbances. You can learn how to conquer sleep issues and insomnia here.
When Should I Seek Medical Advice?
It’s important to consult your General Practitioner (GP) if you’re experiencing persistent anxiety. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.
What Happens to my Body when I Feel Anxious?
When you experience anxiety, your body activates the fight or flight response you can read all about stress here). This involves the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare your body to deal with the perceived threat. While this response is helpful when you’re in real danger, long term activation can lead to various health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health disorders.
How Can I Manage Anxiety?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and hypnotherapy are highly effective treatments for anxiety. Here’s how they work:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to anxiety. It is a structured, goal-oriented approach that has been extensively researched and endorsed by mental health professionals worldwide.
CBT is supported by a vast amount of clinical research and studies have shown that it significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety (Hofmann et al., 2012).
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends CBT as a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders.
Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy involves guided relaxation and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness. In this state, you can explore thoughts, feelings, and memories that may be contributing to your anxiety.
Hypnotherapy can enhance the effects of CBT by helping you access and reframe your thoughts. Research shows that combining hypnotherapy with CBT leads to faster and more lasting results (Kirsch et al., 1995).
What are the Benefits of CBT and Hypnotherapy for Anxiety?
- Both therapies have been proven to effectively reduce anxiety symptoms, helping you feel more relaxed and in control.
- You will learn practical skills and techniques to manage anxiety and prevent it from interfering with your daily life.
- CBT and hypnotherapy provide tools and insights that can lead to long-term relief from anxiety, promoting overall mental well-being.
How Else Can I Manage Anxiety?
In addition to seeking professional help, here are some practical tips to manage anxiety:
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps reduce stress hormones and boosts mood.
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help calm your mind and body.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating well-balanced meals can improve your overall health and reduce anxiety.
- Connect with Others: Social support is crucial. Spend time with friends and family who uplift you.
- Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can increase anxiety levels, so it’s best to consume them in moderation.
- Manage Your Stress Levels
- Peri/menopause are often a factor for anxiety – learn how to manage symptoms here.
Take the First Step Towards Managing Your Anxiety?
Anxiety can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. By understanding your symptoms and seeking the right treatment, you can take control of your mental health. CBT and hypnotherapy are both effective and long lasting treatments for anxiety. By integrating these approaches, I have a breadth of skills and flexibility to create a highly tailored treatment dedicated to helping you manage anxiety effectively.
Get in Touch
If you’re ready to take the first step towards managing your anxiety, contact us today. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and take things one step at a time. I’m here to support you, every step of the way on your journey to better mental health.
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This blog provides valuable information about anxiety, its impact, and comprehensive treatment options. It aims to educate and inform you. Always refer to your GP for medical advice as services offered should not be considered as medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent medical conditions.
Disorders such as OCD, Bi-polar, Substance/Medication-Induced Anxiety Disorder, Selective Mutism and certain other types of anxiety should refer to their GP. Any clinical mental/physical health conditions including PTSD, trauma, and severe depression, severe anxiety, grief, suicidal thoughts. heart conditions, seizures, acute sleep loss mean treatment is not suitable.