Are you considering seeking anxiety counselling in Newcastle, NSW but not sure where to start? We use the word 'anxious' in our everyday language but there is a difference between feeling stressed and anxious to being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. To make matters more complex, when we are in the crux of experiencing stress and anxiety symptoms, it can be hard to tell the difference.
This quick read can help you decide if it might be time to seek specialised anxiety counselling and where to start.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are the most common group of mental health conditions in Australia, affecting 1 in 4 Aussies at some stage over the lifespan. Up to one third of women and one fifth of men will experience anxiety at some point in their lives.
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, and anxiety can play a helpful role in providing adrenalin and cortisol to help us to act in stressful situations such as an exam or public speaking. Anxiety plays a role in helping us to stay alert, to make us aware of risks and motivate us to solve problems. Stress and anxious feelings are common when we are under pressure, and usually pass once the stressful situation has passed.
Anxiety disorders usually involve repeated episodes of sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear about everyday situations. These feelings of panic interfere with daily activities and are out of proportion to the actual danger. Anxiety is when excessive and persistent anxious feelings don't go away and don't have a clear cause. High levels of anxiety affect your ability to concentrate, sleep and carry out ordinary tasks.
Anxiety Symptoms
Anxiety symptoms vary from person to person, but may include the following feelings and/or physiological responses:
feeling very worried or anxious most of the time
finding it difficult to calm down
unable to control anxious thoughts/worries
difficulty concentrating or focussing
fatigue
racing mind
feeling something bad is about to happen
muscle tension
sleep disturbances
sweating
racing heart
churning stomach
digestive issues
headaches
feeling lightheaded
trembling
shortness of breath
Types of Anxiety
There are different types of anxiety disorders including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD),
Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder (with or without Agoraphobia),
Specific Phobias, and Separation Anxiety Disorder. Related conditions include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Acute Stress Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Adjustment Disorder.
Understanding the various types of anxiety disorders and related conditions is crucial in order to provide support and treatment. Each condition has its own unique impacts on daily life, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions.
Anxiety treatment plans
Treatment options for anxiety can include psychological therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Your GP can be a good place to start the conversation around your mental health. Your GP may ask you to do a screener such as the K10 or DASS21 to assess levels of stress, depression and anxiety symptoms.
Your GP can help with discussions around medication options and prescriptions. Your GP can also create a Mental Health Care Plan so you can receive a Medicare Rebate on therapy with a Psychologist or Accredited Mental Health Social Worker. You might want to read more about how to choose a Mental Health Professional when considering counselling for anxiety and other mental health concerns.
Lastly, your GP can also connect you with a mental health professional who specialises in anxiety counselling and find local clinicians if you prefer face to face counselling in your geographical area.
When should I reach out for help with anxiety?
You don't need an anxiety or other mental health diagnosis to seek therapeutic support. Many people reach out for support through stressful life situations to gain perspective, help with decision making strategies and maintain resilience.
It can be hard to tell, particularly if you are currently experiencing symptoms, to know if you are experiencing an anxiety disorder. Reaching out for personalised support from a mental health professional can help determine if it is an anxiety disorder or even a different mental health concern. Specialised anxiety counselling can provide you with practical tools and strategies and treatment planning.
If you would like to start a conversation about specialised anxiety counselling in Newcastle, NSW, email kristenfrasercounselling@gmail.com and speak with me directly about your needs and how I can help.
Anxiety Counselling Newcastle, NSW
Finding a local anxiety counsellor in Newcastle NSW can be done in a variety of ways. Your GP may have a local Newcastle recommendation for a clinician who specialises in anxiety. You could use the Find a Social Worker directory or Psychology Today which lists clinicians by location and you can search by speciality.
Read more about what to consider when choosing a Mental Health Professional - counsellor, psychologist or Accredited Mental Health Social Worker when considering counselling for anxiety or other mental health concerns.
If unsure, reach out
It's important to get help to treat anxiety disorders, there are lots of professionals who can help with anxiety, you need a thorough check by a health professional and there are many treatments for anxiety. For a confidential 15 minute consultation call Kristen on 0493 865 054.
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