Treating Anxiety
Anxiety is an automatic and very natural response to stressful situations. Anxiety results in a number of cognitive (thought), physical and behavioural changes. They are in a sense 'instinctive' in nature – so that an individual can then perform at their peak.
Feelings of Anxiety may come on very quickly (as in the case of Panic Attacks), or might build up slowly (as when we anticipate an important event) but, given time, these uncomfortable feelings normally pass.
Anxiety is an extremely common condition. Whilst it is often caused by worrying thoughts, it can also be the result of poor sleep quality, physical illnesses, or even the effects of certain foods, drinks and substances that stimulate the nervous system.
At Gates Psychology Cairns, we have had extensive experience in working with the various Anxiety Disorders and we can help you to understand your Anxiety symptoms as a first step in aiding your recovery.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Symptoms of Anxiety and Panic Attacks include:- Racing thoughts
- Worrying
- Poor concentration and memory
- Heart palpitations
- Tightness in the chest
- Difficulty breathing
- "Butterflies" in the stomach
- Hyperventilation
- Trembling
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Choking feelings or tightness in the throat
- Fear of losing control
- An overwhelming urge to escape
- Fear of death or of "going crazy".
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Generalised Anxiety Disorder is the excessive worry over a range of health, work, relationship, money, or other issues. Physical symptoms can also occur and may include fatigue, trembling, muscle tension, headache, or even nausea.
Panic Disorder is characterised by feelings of extreme fear and dread that often strike without warning and for no reason. Physical symptoms can include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, stomach problems, feeling disoriented and a fear of dying.
Social Anxiety Disorder is an extreme fear of being embarrassed, judged, or made fun of in social or work situations. Social Anxiety (or Social Phobia) can affect a person's career, relationships and daily activities.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder involves the repetitive and unwanted thoughts (or obsessions) or ritual behaviours (compulsions) that a person feels they cannot control or stop. A person with Obsessive-Compulsive disorder can feel an urgent need to perform a ritual behaviour (such as repetitively washing their hands).
Specific Phobias involve extreme fear of an object or situation that poses little or no danger. People with phobias often avoid certain situations (such as public speaking or large social gatherings) or objects (elevators, for example).
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder involves how an individual reacts to an extremely frightening or stressful event (such as witnessing another person being hurt or killed, or personally being subjected to a trauma where they fear for their own life). An individual suffering from Post-traumatic Stress Disorder may re-live the event through nightmares or flashbacks. They may also feel numb, depressed, angry, irritable and "jumpy".
Substance-Induced Anxiety involves Anxiety symptoms that are brought about following the use of various substances such as cannabis or alcohol.
Anxiety and Depression
Through our extensive experience at Gates Psychology Cairns, we often find that Anxiety and Depression co-exist and our Clinical Psychologists are trained to treat these disorders in tandem.
Treatment of the Anxiety Disorders
Gates Psychology Cairns is highly experienced in the management of the Anxiety Disorders and specialises in their treatment. We offer a range of evidence-based techniques to control Anxiety and we can help you to develop the skills that will empower you to take control of your Anxiety.
We can help you calm your mind, relax your body, improve sleep quality and experience contentment.
Contact Gates Psychology
(07) 4080 7326
The Boland's Centre
14 Spence St (Cnr Lake St.)
Cairns QLD 4870
Tel: (07) 4080 7326
Fax: (07) 4080 7355
