Have you ever felt butterflies in your stomach before a big event, or nervousness when meeting new people? It’s normal to feel anxious sometimes, but when these feelings happen often and affect your daily life, it might signify something more. Today, we’re going to explore what anxiety is, how to spot its symptoms, and what you can do to manage it.

Recognising Anxiety: Key Indicators

​​Anxiety can feel different for everyone, but there are some common signs that might suggest you or someone you know is dealing with it. Here are a few:

• Constant Worry: Feeling worried about a lot of different things, not just specific events.
• Restlessness: Finding it hard to sit still, feeling like you need to move or fidget.
• Trouble Sleeping: Lying awake, worrying or feeling tense at night.
• Rapid Heartbeat: Feeling your heart pounding in your chest during normal, non-stressful situations.
• Avoidance: Staying away from places or situations because they make you feel anxious.

Managing anxiety isn’t just about dealing with the symptoms when they occur—it’s also about building habits that prevent them from taking over. Here are some strategies:

• ​​Deep Breathing: This can help calm your mind and reduce immediate anxiety. Try breathing in slowly for four seconds, holding for two, and exhaling for six.
• Routine Exercise: Regular physical activity is great for reducing stress and improving your mood.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices help you stay present and often lessen feelings of anxiety.
• Structured Schedule: Keeping a regular schedule can provide a sense of normalcy and control.

Sometimes, anxiety can be tough to handle alone, and that’s okay. Here are signs that it might be time to seek professional help:

• Interference with Daily Life: If anxiety stops you from doing things you need or want to do.
• Physical Symptoms: When anxiety starts to physically affect you, like causing headaches or dizziness.
• Long-lasting Anxiety: If you’ve felt anxious for months, not just a few days.
• Feeling Overwhelmed: When the techniques above aren’t enough to manage your anxiety.

If you recognise these signs, consider reaching out to a mental health professional like a counsellor or psychologist. They can offer tailored advice and therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which has been very effective in treating anxiety.

Understanding anxiety is the first step towards managing it. By recognising the signs and knowing when to seek help, you can start to regain control and improve your well-being. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available.

Feeling anxious? You don’t have to manage it alone. Learn more about managing anxiety by clicking here.

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