Anxiety is a feeling of fear and apprehension
Normally anxiety can be useful, helping us to avoid dangerous situations, making us alert and giving us the motivation to deal with problems.
However, if the feelings become too strong or go on for too long, they can stop us from doing the things we want to, making our lives miserable. Many people suffer with stress, it is the second major cause of illness at work, after back problems.
Sign and symptoms
- Inability to concentrate
- Anger or irritability
- Crying or shouting
- Depression
Physical symptoms
- Increased alcohol consumption/smoking
- Restlessness
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Chest pains or palpitations
- Dizziness or sweating
Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations, and a situation that one person finds stressful may not be stressful to someone else. Therefore, almost anything can cause stress. Sometimes, there are no clear causes of stress. Some people naturally feel more frustrated, anxious or depressed than others, which can cause them to feel stressed more often.
Types of anxiety
Anxiety can come in many different forms. It may be Health anxiety, Social anxiety, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Panic Attacks or Panic Disorder, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or Phobias.
Help and support
When anxiety or stress and your reaction to it are dominating your life and there is no chance to switch off, it is time to seek help. Once it is recognised, acknowledged and understood, you will have taken a huge step towards dealing with it.
To find out more information or to book an appointment with a counsellor here to help you or someone you who know who is suffering with Anxiety and Stress.