​​What is anxiety?
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Understanding what anxiety is and what causes it can help you regain control and lead a more fulfilling life.
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Anxiety is a natural emotional response to stress or perceived danger, characterised by feelings of worry, fear, or unease.
At its core, it involves the brain’s amygdala, which processes emotions and alerts us to potential threats. When the amygdala perceives danger—real or imagined—it activates the fight-or-flight response, triggering the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare the body to respond, causing physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, and rapid breathing.
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Historically, this response was essential for human survival, helping our ancestors avoid predators or other dangers. However, in the modern world, where threats are often psychological rather than physical, this response can become overactive, leading to anxiety.
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​Anxiety can be overwhelming and affect your daily life in numerous ways. It might feel like a constant tightness in your chest, making it hard to breathe or relax. You may experience restlessness, difficulty concentrating, or a sense of impending doom even when there’s no clear reason for it. Small tasks can become daunting, leaving you feeling exhausted or irritable. You might find yourself caught in a loop of worrying thoughts, unable to switch off or feel at ease. Anxiety can also affect your sleep, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, further impacting your overall well-being.
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For some, anxiety may be triggered by specific situations, such as social interactions or major life changes, while others experience it as a persistent, overwhelming condition.
​Common Anxiety Symptoms
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Physical Symptoms:
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Racing or pounding heart
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Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
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Sweating, trembling, or shaking
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Muscle tension or aches
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Fatigue or low-energy
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Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
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Stomach issues, such as nausea or upset digestion
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Emotional Symptoms:
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Persistent worry or fear
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Feelings of restlessness or being "on edge"
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Irritability or heightened sensitivity
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Overwhelming dread or sense of impending doom
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Cognitive Symptoms:
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Difficulty concentrating or staying focused
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Racing thoughts or constant overthinking
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Fear of losing control or catastrophising
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Trouble remembering or processing information
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Behavioural Symptoms:
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Avoidance of certain places, people, or situations
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Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
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Fidgeting, pacing, or repetitive movements
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Withdrawing from social interactions or responsibilities
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​​​​​​​​​​Anxiety and the Menopause
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Menopause, typically occurring in women between the ages of 45 and 55, can significantly impact emotional well-being and contribute to feelings of anxiety. The hormonal changes associated with menopause, particularly the drop in estrogen levels, can interfere with the regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which help to control mood and stress. These fluctuations can make women more vulnerable to anxiety, irritability, and mood swings, with anxiety often becoming more pronounced during perimenopause (the transitional phase leading up to menopause).
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Additionally, menopause-related symptoms such as sleep disturbances, hot flashes, and physical discomfort can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety. For some women, these changes create a sense of uncertainty or fear about the future, which can further heighten anxiety levels.
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​​​Left unmanaged, anxiety can impact relationships, work, and overall well-being. By understanding the nature of anxiety and the role menopause may play in its onset or worsening, seeking support, and developing coping strategies, you can regain a sense of balance and control during this life transition.
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How I can support you?
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In our counselling sessions, I will create a safe and supportive environment where you can openly explore the feelings and experiences contributing to your anxiety, without fear of judgement. Together, we will work to identify the specific triggers that cause your anxiety, whether they are external situations or internal thought patterns.
Through this process, I will help you understand the root causes of your anxiety and how it affects both your mind and body. I will introduce you to practical coping strategies tailored to your needs, such as grounding techniques, mindfulness exercises, and breathing practices, which are designed to manage overwhelming thoughts and reduce physical symptoms like racing heart or shortness of breath.
Over time, our work will focus on building resilience, helping you regain control over your anxiety, and fostering a greater sense of calm. You’ll develop the tools to manage anxiety in your day-to-day life, empowering you to feel more balanced, confident, and in control. With consistent support, we can work together to reduce the impact of anxiety and help you feel more at ease in navigating everyday challenges. Anxiety doesn't have to control you—you can take back control.
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