Treatment for anxiety
Anxiety is the result of our body and mind’s instinctual reaction to threat or danger. Most of us know it as the ‘Fight or Flight’ response. When Anxiety strikes, the body releases hormones such as adrenaline, which in turn results in a number of physiological reactions occurring in the body. These responses were essential for early man’s survival. When the fight or flight response is in effect, blood supply is diverted from the skin to essential organs such as heart and lungs (that’s why we sometimes go pale). Adrenaline makes the heart beat faster (palpitations). Other hormones boost our brain activity and effect our emotions helping us to survive by ensuring that we are alert and responsive to the danger.
In the appropriate situation, high levels of anxiety – even panic – is considered normal and helpful if it prompts us to escape from danger. Anxiety in performance situations such as interviews and exams can help us perform to the best of our ability. The problems arise when people’s response (anxiety) is out of proportion to the actual danger of the situation, or that it is generated when there is no danger present.
Anxiety is something we all experience from time to time. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or debilitating then it is considered an Anxiety Disorder.
Over the last few decades there has been a dramatic improvement in our understanding of anxiety and how it can be treated. If you feel you are suffering from Anxiety talk to one of our trained Counsellors to discover some proven techniques for overcoming anxiety, obtaining stress relief and curing panic attacks, for good.
Social Anxiety
It is a form of anxiety and self-consciousness prevalent in social situations with a central fear of being judged negatively or appearing stupid. Sufferers tend to avoid social or performance situations such as public speaking and social gatherings. Attending functions or performances can cause extreme anxiety and distress.
Over 75% of people will suffer from the disorder at some point in their lives. The onset is most frequent in mid-teens, but can occur at any time. Symptoms manifest themselves physically and can include blushing, sweating and palpitations.
People with social phobia may:
- View small mistakes as more exaggerated than they really are.
- Find blushing as painfully embarrassing.
- Feel that all eyes are on them.
- Fear public speaking, dating, or talking with persons in authority.
- Fear using public restrooms or restaurants.
- Fear of talking on the phone or writing in front of others.
Our trained counsellors can help to alleviate the symptoms and improve your quality of life.