Anxiety
If you are concerned that your levels anxiety are causing you distress, you may be interested in learning more about the different types of anxiety and common symptoms. Anxiety manifests in many different ways and a number of these ways have been named and classified.
Below we outline some diagnostic classes of anxiety with more information available on each symptom set in a separate page. And offcourse, whilst it is helpful to know about a range of conditions that may affect you, self diagnosis is seldom a good idea. If any of the conditions listed below appear to be relevant to you, speaking with a professional is advised. Moreover, engaging in counselling therapy with a qualified counsellor, psychologist or psychotherapist is a proven treatment for alleviating many such symptoms.
The conditions related to anxiety for which we have dedicated pages include:
This condition refers to chronic worrying, stress and tension which interferes with ordinary enjoyment of life. It refers to the experience of constant worry which seems unnecessary or greater than might be warranted given the situation. Read more about GENERALISED ANXIETY DISORDER
Which refers to having sudden experiences of extreme anxiety, even terror, palpitations and sweats which come on suddenly and may or may not recur over time. Read more about PANIC DISORDER and PANIC ATTACKS
Refers to a fear of having a panic attack when out in the open or when thinking about leaving one’s home. Read more about AGORAPHOBIA
Refers to the experience which begin shortly after being in a life threatening situation including intrusive symptoms like flashbacks and other symptoms associated with dissociation, or not being quite present. Read more about ACUTE STRESS DISORDER
Refers to the experiences which begin some weeks, months or even years after experiencing a life threatening situation including intrusive symptoms like flashbacks and other symptoms associated with dissociation, or not being quite present as well as symptoms related to avoidance of reminders of the original trauma. Read more about POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER – PTSD
Refers to a phobia of speaking with or socialising with other people including a fear of intense panic in such situations. Read more about SOCIAL ANXIETY / SOCIAL PHOBIA
Refers to an experience of panic at the thought, sight, touch or smell of a feared object or event. For instance riding on a elevator or flying in a plane or spiders. Read more about SPECIFIC PHOBIA .
Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney can put you in touch with a Sydney based therapists who offers professional treatment for anxiety related conditions.
Call us for help.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (1994). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fourth edition. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.
National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH Publication No. 95-3879 (1995
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Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear. It’s a natural response to certain situations, but when it becomes frequent or overwhelming, it may be an indication of an anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of anxiety can be physical and psychological, including restlessness, a sense of dread, difficulty concentrating, and physical signs like a rapid heartbeat. It’s important to seek help if these symptoms persist or affect daily life.
While anxiety can’t be ‘cured’ per se, it can be effectively managed. With the help of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these, many people lead fulfilling lives despite their anxiety.
Counselling can provide tools and strategies to manage anxiety. It helps you understand the root of your fears and worries and teaches effective coping mechanisms, thus reducing the intensity and frequency of anxiety symptoms.
The length of anxiety treatment varies and depends on individual circumstances, such as the severity of the anxiety and the person’s response to treatment. Some people may see improvements in a few sessions, while others may need longer-term support.
Medication isn’t always necessary for treating anxiety. Often, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, or a combination can be effective. However, in severe cases, medication can provide significant relief and is determined by a healthcare professional.
For your first counselling session, simply come prepared to discuss your feelings and experiences. You don’t need to prepare anything specific – the therapist will guide the conversation and help you feel comfortable.
Yes, regular exercise, a healthy diet, good sleep, and mindfulness techniques can all help manage anxiety at home. However, if your anxiety is severe or persistent, professional help should be sought.
Yes, your discussions during counselling are confidential. Confidentiality is a key component of the therapeutic relationship, designed to create a safe and trusting environment.
It’s completely normal to feel anxious about starting counselling. Remember, the role of a counsellor is to provide a safe, supportive environment and help you navigate these feelings, not to judge or criticize.
