Anxiety

On average, anxiety affects one in four people – one in three women and one in five men (Beyond Blue, 2016). These statistics reveal that anxiety is the most common mental health condition in Australia. Anxiety is beyond the normal level of worry and stress. The signs and symptoms of anxiety can become so persistent and severe that they can have a significant impact on day to day functioning and quality of life. For many people, their anxiety impacts their relationships, ability to socialise, their self-esteem and their productivity at work/school.

Seeking help from a Psychologist or Counsellor

Our team of Psychologists and Counsellors, located on the Sunshine Coast, Sydney and Newcastle, are trained in diagnosing anxiety disorders and working with their clients to help them implement effective strategies to manage anxiety. This may involve developing skills and techniques to reduce the occurrence and intensity of anxiety; making simple changes to lifestyle habits that can have a profound impact on anxiety levels; and using psychological therapies such as mindfulness techniques and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT is highly effective in the treatment of anxiety, enabling clients to identify and understand how their thoughts may contribute to their anxiety. CBT helps you learn how to change unhelpful thought patterns, therefore reducing the likelihood and intensity of anxiety.

As each person is unique, the psychological care plans for anxiety depend on the individual and how their anxiety presents. With expert psychological care, anxiety can be effectively managed and you can feel your best and live a quality life.

Understanding Anxiety

Chronic stress, thinking patterns, physical health conditions, substance use, and genetic influences are just some of the factors that may contribute to the development of anxiety. Anxiety can present in many different forms, including generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Because of this, each person’s signs and symptoms will be different. Generally, anxiety can cause a combination of the following:

• Fast-paced breathing
• Racing heart
• Stomach ‘in knots’
• Muscle tension
• Restlessness
• Tightening of the chest
• Hot and cold flushes
• Obsessive thinking
• Excessive fear and/or worry
• Catastrophising
• Panic attacks
• Avoidance of situations that increase anxiety

How is Anxiety treated?

A range of treatments are effective in the treatment of anxiety. The most common therapies are lifestyle and dietary changes, social support networks, psychological therapies and medication.

It is important to know that you are not alone as there are many health professionals and organisations that can assist. Some people find a lot of benefit with the support from one health professional; while other people prefer working with a small team of health professionals for different aspects of their treatment. Everyone is different, and it is important that you find the treatment path that suits you and your needs. 

Whilst anxiety is often viewed as a ‘mental’ health disorder, it is important to consider other factors such as diet, digestive health and genetic influences. Research is confirming links between anxiety + diet, anxiety + the microbiome, and anxiety + nutrient deficiencies. Our team of health professionals ensure that no stone is left unturned by addressing these factors where necessary. This is assessed and discussed with the client and ensures the most comprehensive approach to treatment.

Next steps

We would be humbled to help you. You do not need a referral from your doctor to book an appointment with us, however, doing so may attract a medicare rebate. Please contact us for more information about this.