You may feel constantly on edge, struggle to switch off, or find your thoughts spiralling with “what ifs.” Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychological difficulties, but they are also highly treatable with the right support.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is the body and mind’s response to perceived threat or uncertainty.

It triggers the “fight-or-flight” system, which can be useful in short bursts. For some people, though, this response becomes stuck in overdrive. Instead of easing once a stressful situation passes, the nervous system remains heightened, leading to ongoing worry and tension.

Anxiety can develop gradually or flare after life changes, stress, or trauma. It is shaped by a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can show up in many different ways, including:

• Physical symptoms: racing heart, muscle tension, dizziness, headaches, sweating, stomach upset

• Cognitive symptoms: constant worry, difficulty concentrating, intrusive “what if” thoughts

• Emotional symptoms: feeling nervous, irritable, restless, dread or impending doom

• Behavioural symptoms: avoiding situations, seeking reassurance, difficulty sleeping, withdrawing from activities

These symptoms may come and go, or they may be persistent and exhausting. If anxiety interferes with work, relationships, or overall wellbeing, it may be time to seek professional help.

Types of Anxiety

There are several forms of anxiety, including:

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): persistent, uncontrollable worry about everyday matters

• Health Anxiety: preoccupation with physical symptoms or fear of illness

• Social Anxiety: fear of social judgement or embarrassment (see separate page)

• Panic Disorder: recurring panic attacks and fear of further episodes

• Specific Phobias: intense fear of certain objects or situations (see separate page)

How Therapy Can Help with Anxiety

Anxiety responds well to evidence-based psychological therapies. At our clinic, your treatment plan is tailored to your needs and preferences. Approaches may include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): challenges anxious thoughts and avoidance patterns through practical strategies

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): helps you build a different relationship with anxious thoughts and take values-based action

• Mindfulness and Compassion-Focused Therapy: calm the nervous system and reduce self-criticism

• Schema Therapy: explores long-standing patterns and beliefs that fuel anxiety

• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): especially useful when anxiety is linked to past trauma

Therapy offers tools to manage worry in the moment and build resilience for the future. Many clients find that therapy not only reduces symptoms but also restores confidence, energy, and freedom to engage in life more fully.

When to Seek Help

If anxiety is stopping you from doing things you value, affecting your sleep, relationships, or ability to concentrate, professional support can make a real difference. Even if you’ve lived with anxiety for years, change is possible. A first consultation will explore your experiences, clarify what is driving the anxiety, and develop a treatment approach that feels right for you.