Vanessa Vaughan Counselling

Vanesssa Vaughan

January 3 2025 | 5 min read |  

This article explores anxiety, its causes, and symptoms and how counselling can help if you are struggling.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural human response to a range of different situations, characterised by feelings of worry, fear, or unease. It can range from mild to severe and nearly everyone experiences it at some point.

Typically, it is temporary and subsides once the stressful situation is resolved. Commonly, triggers include significant life events like exams, job interviews, or major changes.

What Causes Anxiety?

Originating from the body’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response—anxiety is a survival mechanism that helps us react to danger. For instance, when we feel threatened, our body releases stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which make us more alert. Once the danger passes, the body usually returns to a relaxed state. However, for some, this stress response becomes persistent, therefore affecting daily life and overall well-being.

What Does Anxiety Feel Like?

The experience of anxiety varies from person to person, however, common psychological and physical symptoms include:

Psychological Symptoms:

• Persistent worry or fear, often expecting the worst
• Feeling tense, nervous, or unable to relax
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Racing thoughts and a sense of dread

Physical Symptoms:

• Shortness of breath or tight chest
• Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
• Dry mouth, increased sweating, and difficulty sleeping
• “Butterflies” in the stomach
• Shaking, loss or gain of appetite

While these physical and psychological responses are part of a natural reaction to stress, it’s important to note that suffering from anxiety long-term can interfere with daily life and may become disproportionate to the actual threat.

Common Causes of Anxiety

Triggers for anxiety vary, but common causes include:

• Stressful life events (e.g., work pressure, relationship problems, financial stress)
• Trauma or unresolved past experiences
• Genetics or a family history
• Health concerns or chronic illness

However, identifying the root cause can make it easier to find effective ways to manage it which, in turn, can lead to better well-being.

How Counselling Can Help

If anxiety feels overwhelming and affects your daily life, therapy can offer valuable support. A professional counsellor can help you explore the underlying causes and develop tailored coping strategies.  In addition, counselling offers the following benefits:

• Provides a safe, confidential space to express your thoughts and feelings
• Helps identify triggers and patterns
• Introduces effective coping techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises
• Increases self-awareness and builds confidence

As a result, counselling can provide long-term relief by addressing both symptoms and root causes, therefore, empowering you to manage stress more effectively.

Final Thoughts

While anxiety is a normal part of life, chronic anxiety can negatively impact mental health and quality of life. Thus, if you’re struggling or finding it hard to relax, talking to a professional can make a significant difference.

Need Help with Anxiety?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider getting in touch for a free 30-minute consultation. Reach out today to start your journey towards feeling more at ease.

Additionally you can find out more about anxiety by visiting the Mind website.