Anxiety

Many of us have heard of the term anxiety but what is it?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress characterised by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear. It's a normal reaction to challenging situations but can become problematic when it is excessive, persistent, and interferes with daily activities. Anxiety disorders, which are among the most common mental health conditions, include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms can range from physical signs like increased heart rate and sweating to psychological effects such as a sense of impending doom or obsessive thoughts.

According to Healthify NZ, approximately 1 in 4 New Zealander's will be affected by an anxiety disorder at some stage in their lives.

There is no specific reason why some people will experience anxiety at some stage, however some causes may include genetic factors (according to research having a close relative with anxiety problems can increase your chances of also experiencing anxiety problems yourself), past childhood experiences, your current life situation, health issues and as well as alcohol, drugs and certain types of medication.

What therapies are used for anxiety?

Counselling has the potential to help with anxiety, by allowing you time and a safe space to explore your feelings and issues and equipping you with tools to help you in your journey. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is often used in sessions when working with someone presenting with anxiety.

Mindfulness is another concept which is sometimes integrated in sessions and can prove helpful in regulating our central nervous system when practised daily.

Person-centred therapy is central to counselling in Aotearoa and is fundamental in building the all-important therapeutic relationship. The therapist-client relationship is the foundation of effective counselling. This professional alliance fosters an environment of trust and safety, encouraging clients to share their thoughts and experiences openly and be vulnerable without judgement.

What can I do at home to help with my anxiety?

Managing anxiety at home can include journalling which is a technique that has been used to help with anxiety for a number of years. The concept of writing down your feelings can have a positive effect on your mental health. Incorporating exercise/movement has also been shown to boost our mood as your body releases chemicals known as endorphins which trigger a happy feeling in your body. Exercise is also good for cardiovascular health. Eating a balanced diet has also been shown to aid in health and wellbeing. Harvard Medical School have written some great posts regarding the gut-brain connection and how this can contribute to anxiety (link below for more information regarding this). Incorporating mindfulness sessions at home or relaxation techniques can again help to regulate a dysregulated central nervous system when practised daily.

If you find that your anxiety is affecting your relationships, work/life balance and your health and wellbeing, you may also want to make an appointment to see your General Practitioner for advice or possibly a referral to another health professional. You may also consider counselling as an option.

Anxiety is different for everyone and everyone's story's regarding anxiety will also be different. For those struggling with anxiety please reach out to someone you can trust, seek help through seeing your GP or consider counselling.

To those of you who are going through a tough time right now, it's important to remember to be kind and gentle with yourself, just as you would be with a friend in a similar situation. Allow yourself some grace and understanding.

For more information or free support:

Anxiety Helpline (free) - 0800 269 4389 or Anxiety NZ - Welcome! Nau mai, haere mai! | Anxiety NZ

Harvard Gut-brain link:

The gut-brain connection - Harvard Health

For inquiries you can visit our website or email me at: halen@wellbeingcounselling.co.nz