Feeling anxious from time to time is a normal part of life, but for some, anxiety can become overwhelming and persistent, affecting daily functioning and quality of life. Panic attacks, a particularly intense form of anxiety, can cause severe and distressing symptoms that interrupt normal activities. If you find yourself constantly worried, experiencing a sense of dread, or having sudden episodes of intense fear, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders and panic attacks are among the most common mental health issues, and they are highly treatable with the right support.

Common symptoms of anxiety

Anxiety manifests in various ways, and its symptoms can differ from person to person. Some common signs include:

• Persistent worry: An inability to control worry about various aspects of life. This may feel like you’re involved in an endless problem-solving exercise (for which there are no real solutions).
• Physical symptoms: These can include a racing heart, sweating, trembling, or feeling dizzy.
• Restlessness: Feeling on edge or unable to sit still.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired even when you haven’t exerted yourself physically.
• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep.
• Irritability: Feeling easily frustrated or short-tempered.
• Concentration issues: Finding it hard to focus or having your mind go blank.

Common symptoms of panic attacks

Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly and often without a clear trigger. They typically peak within minutes and can include:

• Intense fear: A sudden overwhelming fear or sense of impending doom.
• Physical symptoms: These can include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and stomach distress.
• Numbness or tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling, especially in the extremities.
• Hot or cold flashes: Sudden feelings of being very hot or very cold.
• Detachment: Feeling detached from reality or oneself, also known as depersonalisation or derealisation.

Recognising these symptoms is the first step towards understanding that you might need help.

Therapies for anxiety and panic attacks

At our practice, we offer a range of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet your unique situation. Our goal is to help you regain control, reduce your symptoms, and improve your overall wellbeing. Here are some of the therapies we might use:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This is a well-established approach that helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours. CBT can provide you with practical strategies to manage anxiety-provoking situations and panic attacks.
• Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation can help you stay present and reduce the impact of anxious thoughts and panic symptoms.
• Exposure Therapy: For those who avoid certain situations due to anxiety or panic attacks, gradual exposure under controlled conditions can help you confront and overcome your fears.
• Relaxation techniques: Learning methods like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery can help you calm your body and mind.
• Supportive counselling: Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can make a significant difference. We provide a safe and non-judgemental space for you to express your feelings.

Living with anxiety and panic attacks can be incredibly disruptive, affecting every aspect of your life. But you don’t have to accept this as your reality. With the right support and strategies, it’s possible to manage these challenges effectively and restore a sense of peace, calm and confidence.

If you would like to seek support, our team is here to help you. Simply give us a call when you feel ready to make a change.