For some people anxiety feels like they are constantly on alert. Others describe being ready to snap, fearful or like they have to wind themselves up to get through what needs to be done.

 

Clients often say they are running on adrenaline. Most say their thoughts are fast and furious. A calm moment where life appears to be under control is uncommon.

 

Emily Scanlan’s treatment for anxiety benefits from her experience working at Mosman Private Hospital on the Anxiety Day Program. Therapy draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness Symptoms

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Some symptoms of anxiety:

• Preoccupation with worry

• Headaches

• Undereating or overeating

• Various aches and pains from muscle tension- neck, shoulder, back

• Digestive problems

• Loss of breath

• Racing heart

• Reduced connection with people important to you

• A feeling that you can’t cope

• A sense that life is out of control

• A fear of the worst happening (failure, loss of employment, loss of relationship)

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Treatment for anxiety aims to do the following:

• Understand the triggers for becoming anxious

• Build skills to let go of rumination about people or events that you can’t control

• Maintain your attention on the task at hand (staying in the present moment or mindfulness)

• Regain a sense of control of your life

• Feel more confident that you can tolerate stress