Symptoms of general anxiety can include restlessness, a sense of dread, feeling constantly ‘on edge’, difficulty concentrating and irritability. It can also affect sleep and causes physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, stomach discomfort, dry mouth or excess sweating depending on the individual. Many people with anxiety attempt to avoid the triggers for their anxiety; this can become very limiting and affect their work, social life, relationships and ability to function in everyday life. For example, if you suffer from social anxiety you may feel unable to give presentations, which could undermine your work performance and future career prospects. If you suffer from health anxiety you may avoid public places for fear of catching a contagious illness.

Anxiety is a catch all term that can cover a myriad of issues: you may be experiencing anxiety related to health, social anxiety, panic attacks or general anxiety. The good news is that CBT has been proven to treat anxiety disorders effectively and therapy could allow you to face your fears and stop them taking over your life.

I have a particular interest in peri-natal anxiety (occurring during pregnancy or within the first year of the birth of your child). Women who have never suffered from excessive anxiety can find the hormonal changes, lifestyle change and worries that come along with motherhood lead to unmanageable levels of anxiety. Again CBT can help you to explore the root of your anxiety and use tools to challenge the unhelpful thoughts and beliefs causing it, allowing you to enjoy motherhood without the cloud of anxiety hanging over you.

Symptoms of stress can include tiredness, headaches, upset stomach, chest pain, sleep disturbances, loss of sex drive and frequently colds and infections. These physical symptoms may be accompanied by feeling overwhelmed, unable to cope, easily upset and/or irritable.
Stress is usually caused by an external factor.
The demands of work, family, caring responsibilities and more can be a difficult juggling act. In our 24 hour society many people find that their own and others’ expectations of them can become overwhelming. If you are having trouble coping with one or more aspects of your life as a result of stress, therapy can help you to identify problem areas, re-evaluate and provide you with stress management techniques.

Sometimes we feel dissatisfied or down but we don’t know why. Perhaps reaching a milestone age, children leaving home or another major life change can leave us questioning our identity and our path in life. Talking therapy can provide a listening ear without judgement, well meaning advice or an agenda which you might receive from those close to you. It allows you to honestly explore what is causing you unhappiness and provides a ‘mirror’ to let you conclude what to do to change your life for the better.