What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, but for many people, it can become overwhelming and interfere with daily life. It’s one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. If you’ve ever experienced persistent worry, fear, or physical symptoms like a racing heart or tension, you’re not alone.
In this blog, we’ll explore what anxiety is, its common symptoms, and how evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you take control of your life again.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is your body’s way of preparing for potential threats, often referred to as the "fight-or-flight" response. While occasional anxiety is normal, chronic or intense anxiety can lead to:
Constant worrying about everyday situations.
Difficulty concentrating or feeling "on edge."
Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, sweating, or a rapid heartbeat.
Avoidance of situations that might trigger fear or worry.
These symptoms can affect work, relationships, and overall quality of life, making it hard to feel in control.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent worry about a variety of topics, often disproportionate to the situation.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations or being judged by others.
Panic Disorder: Sudden and intense panic attacks that come with physical symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
Specific Phobias: Excessive fear of a particular object or situation, such as heights or flying.
Health Anxiety: Preoccupation with having or developing a serious illness.
What Causes Anxiety?
Anxiety can be triggered by a combination of factors, including:
Stressful life events or trauma.
Genetics or a family history of anxiety disorders.
Imbalances in brain chemicals that regulate mood.
Chronic health conditions or substance use.
Everyone’s experience of anxiety is unique, but it’s important to remember that it’s not your fault. Anxiety is a real and treatable condition.
How Can CBT Help with Anxiety?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety. CBT helps you:
Understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected.
Identify and challenge negative thinking patterns.
Learn practical techniques to manage symptoms and reduce avoidance.
Build confidence in facing anxiety-provoking situations.
For some, combining CBT with mindfulness or relaxation techniques can further enhance results. Taking small, manageable steps toward recovery is key.
