Break Free from Anxiety
Have you ever felt like you can’t control your thoughts and it’s making you feel overwhelmed?
Do you ever feel like you worry about everything and your worried thoughts consume you? If so, you may be suffering from anxiety and could be one of the 8 million people in the UK who are currently struggling with it.
How is anxiety treated?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders according to Nice (National Institute of Clinical Excellence) guidelines in the UK.
What is CBT?
CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and by changing negative thought patterns and behaviours, one can alleviate and treat the anxiety.
What does CBT therapy look like?
CBT techniques for anxiety often include identifying and challenging irrational thoughts also known as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy which is the gradual exposure to feared situations, and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.
There are also self help strategies that really help in treating anxiety which include:
Exercise – regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety symptoms by releasing endorphins and promoting relaxation.
Healthy lifestyle – adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol can help manage anxiety.
Stress management techniques – techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce overall stress levels.
What types of CBT therapy treatments are there?
Individual therapy – one to one sessions with a therapist trained in treating anxiety disorders.
Group therapy – provides support and allows individuals to learn from others facing similar challenges.
Online therapy – increasingly popular for its accessibility and convenience, offering CBT-based programs or therapy sessions conducted via an online platform like Zoom, Teams or Google Meet.
Medication – Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors – commonly prescribed antidepressants that can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders. Medication can initially make the symptoms increase before they make you feel better, which is why they should always be taken under the supervision of your GP.
What are the most common anxiety disorders?
There are many different types of anxiety disorders some of which you may have heard of as listed below.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder – GAD – this is one of the most common anxiety disorders and is characterised by excessive worry and anxiety about everyday events and problems.
Social anxiety disorder – involves intense fear of social situations and interactions for example fear of being judged or saying something silly leading to people avoiding social situations at all costs.
Panic disorders – marked by sudden and recurring panic attacks, often accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shortness of breath which can come on at any time.
Health anxiety – involves obsessive concerns and thoughts about having an illness, or worrying that they may get sick, despite reassurances from medical tests and professionals.
