Anxiety Counselling

What is anxiety?

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Many people mistakenly think it only a severe nervous problem like panic attacks, obsessive behaviours and relentless worrying.  Anxiety is very common and there are several treatments that can successfully treat anxiety and provide relief from symptoms for the various types of anxiety.

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Anxiety symptoms

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Anxiety symptoms appear in so many different ways. I usually give all my clients a brief test which measures anxiety levels at the first counselling session.

Anxiety has both psychological symptoms and physical symptoms - not everyone has the same set of symptoms.  Some of the symptoms are:

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• Rapid heartbeat

• Constant thinking and difficulty thinking clearly

• Difficulty breathing

• Excessive trembling and sweating (sweaty hands)

• Nausea and dizziness

• Tightness and knots in the stomach

• Insomnia or disturbed sleep

• Chest pain, tightness in the chest and headaches

• Difficulty concentrating and focusing and forgetfulness

• Weakness in the limbs and muscle tension

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Additionally people suffering with anxiety often find themselves with compulsive worrying, irrational fears, difficulty in social settings and more. Some people mistakenly think they are having a heart attack and go to their doctor or the emergency department of their local hospital. To add to their confusion and shock, they are told there is nothing physically wrong with them and that they are most likely suffering with anxiety.  

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What are the most common types of anxiety?

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• Generalized Anxiety disorder

• Social Anxiety

• Specific Phobia

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

• Posttraumatic Stress disorder

• Panic Disorder

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If left untreated anxiety can have a detrimental effect on work, relationships, family, social and recreational activities. 

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