Whilst stress can have a negative connotation in the English language, in fact most stress is positive. Whilst it may not feel good, it is natural and can ensure we perform appropriately at the right moments. These feelings and the physical responses relate back to our Flight, Fight, Freeze and Flop responses. As such, our sub-conscious will protect us through releasing chemicals in order that we can perform appropriately to deal with a given situation or threat. This is why we feel sick, tired, tearful, why our palms sweat or our hearts race. 

 

Stress becomes an issue when it is inappropriate to the situation. That is not to say that what you experience is not real, but rather that our natural survival instinct kicks in when it feels like it's not needed. However, there will be a good reason you have got to that point. There are some great techniques to signal to your body that this response is not needed. Then, if you feel it is useful, then talking therapy can help understand what was fuelling the survival response.

 

There are different types of stress, here are some examples:

 

• Acute - Anticipated demand or pressure.

• Episodic - Recurring stress: habitual, overabundance of tasks

• Chronic - Perpetual stress: sufferer often unaware due to constant nature

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Sustained stress or specific traumatic event(s) can lead to anxiety. It is important to understand that anxiety is not an emotion. It is a survival response. These fears may feel rational or irrational, but is unable to control it. Anxiety also creates physical symptoms; heart racing, sweating, feeling sick, extreme emotions, dry mouth, insomnia, dizziness to name but a few. Due to the perpetual nature of anxiety, it ultimately leads to a feeling of loss of control.

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Anxiety comes in many forms and the best thing to do is to call to discuss or book a consultation. Don't be afraid to have a conversation with your GP: whilst these feelings can, and often do feel irrational to the sufferer, they are surprisingly common. You are not alone and there are always avenues of support. However, here are some examples of anxiety;

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• Phobias

• Panic Attacks - Appear suddenly. Feeling of loss of control.

• Social Anxiety - Overwhelming, sufferer feels extremely self-conscious

• Generalised Anxiety - Excessive and persistent stress and hopelessness.

• Obsessive Compulsive - Compulsion to act on thoughts, comes in many forms. 

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Note: Certain areas of anxiety, such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder and OCD need GP support to ensure the client has an appropriate level of support and a treatment plan in place. The therapist will guide you through and refer you if necessary.