ANXIETY

 Back when there were living cavemen, the stress response was activated when they were running away from a saber tooth tiger. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) released adrenaline and cortisol in the Fight & Flight response so blood would be immediately pumped to muscles, heart rate sped up, pupils dilated, digestion stopped and the bladder was released to quickly run away to safety.

Fast forward to present day, and your SNS is activated by work stress, family responsibilities, social norms, financial concerns, and there just not being enough hours in the day to accommodate your ‘To Do list’.

The difference between caveman era and present day?

The caveman could rest when the danger (saber tooth tiger) had been removed. The trouble with today is that your nervous system doesn’t know the difference between a saber tooth tiger and you having to give a presentation at work. There is also limited time to rest. Daily expectations keep growing and tasks seem to never end. This can keep the sympathetic nervous system activated and can cause long term effects on your health.

Anxiety can present itself differently for many people. For some, a tightness in their chest may occur, along with shortness of breath. Where as others may experience sweaty palms and an overall fear that may cause dizziness, and even a fear of dying.

These unwanted symptoms can lead to social withdrawal, avoidance and irritability.

Types of Anxiety:

  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder - Feeling worried about future events or situations, can occur expectantly

  • Social Anxiety - Fear of social situations (rejection and humiliation) and ‘saying something stupid’

  • Panic Attacks - Can occur expectantly, but symptoms can feel like a heart attack and have a strong intensity. They can also last for a few minutes

  • Phobias - Specific fear e.g. heights, spiders, water, public speaking etc.

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - Repetitive behaviour that is carried out to soothe a concern, fear of germs

How I can Support You with Anxiety:

  • ACT (Acceptance Commitment Therapy)

  • Nutritional advice

  • Nutraceutical support - amino acids, vitamins, minerals

  • Yoga & Movement

  • Meditation & Mindfulness practices

  • Hypnotherapy