What is Anxiety?

From time-to-time, each person experiences anxiety in response to stress. They might feel nervous before an important event, or when making an important decision. This type of anxiety can be beneficial and can show that the person views what they are about to do as important to them. However, when discussing anxiety in the psychology context, it is more than a response to stress, it is an overwhelming and debilitating mental health condition associated with feelings of significant distress. 

There are a range of anxiety disorders including specific phobia, social anxiety, panic disorder, separation anxiety, health anxiety, and many others. Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) effects 28.8% of Australians in their lifetime (ABS, 2022) and covers a broad range of anxiety symptoms. GAD is characterised by excessive anxiety or worry causing significant distress in a range of settings (e.g., work, social, education), occurring more often than not for a period of at least 6-months. This worry is difficult to control and often involves 3 or more of the following symptoms: restlessness or feeling on edge, fatigue, reduced concentration, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance (e.g., insomnia or hypersomnia). 

For those with other forms of anxiety such as specific phobia or social anxiety, there may be behaviours of avoidance such as not attending social events or avoiding situations where there maybe something that causes a phobia reaction. For those with panic disorder or those who experience panic attacks, this may involve a range of physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, increased heart rate or palpitations, sweating, chills or heat sensations, trembling or shaking, chest pain or tightness, nausea, dizziness, numbness or tingling, fear of losing control, fear of dying, and derealisation (things not feeling real) or depersonalisation (feeling as though you are detached from yourself).

What Causes Anxiety? 

Anxiety often occurs due to a stressor, like an important presentation, or before having an uncomfortable situation. So, what is stress and how can it affect you? If you are feeling stressed before an important event this may be referred to as eustress which can be beneficial. Eustress can increase your production of adrenaline, meaning you will have more energy to practice for, and to complete, your presentation. The other well-known type of stress is distress, which can also be beneficial in some situations such as fight, flight, fright, or fawn scenarios. However, prolonged exposure to stress can cause your body to produce the hormone cortisol, increased production of cortisol over an extended period may lead to illness through weaking the immune system. 

Anxiety may be influenced by genetics, meaning those with a family history may be more likely to be anxious. However, anxiety is also influenced by environmental factors such as work pressures, finances, and relationship issues. Anxiety may also be influenced by the way you were raised, for example, people who were raised by parents with high expectation may develop performance related anxiety. Anxiety may also occur due to another mental or physical health condition or from substance use. 

How is Anxiety Diagnosed and Treated? 

Anxiety can be diagnosed and treated by your psychologist or counsellor. There are many different therapies available for anxiety, with the most common being cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT uses a variety of techniques such cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy to help reduce symptoms of anxiety. Additionally, CBT can be a useful tool for identifying appropriate and helpful coping mechanisms for those with anxiety (see our CBT blogs for more information). Additionally, mindfulness techniques are effective for bringing those with anxiety back to the present moment and allowing them to observe their thoughts without judgement. 

Lifestyle factors such as regular exercise, quality sleep for 7-9 hours per night, a balanced diet and hydration, and a support system, can also help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Your support system might include friends and family; however, it is important to include your GP and psychologist when needed. 

Conclusion

Anxiety is a complex condition that can both cause and be caused by significant distress. By understanding triggers for anxiety, as well as symptoms, you can work with your psychologist to determine effective coping mechanisms and take steps to reduce and manage your symptoms. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety you can find more information about anxiety here: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/anxiety

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Connect with one of our Therapists who can assist you with anxiety and drepression treatments.