Anxiety and Keeping Well
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We all need a certain amount of “good stress” in our lives which helps to motivate us to get out of bed in the
morning and tackle challenges and opportunities. This is known as eustress. Stress and worry affect most
people at some point in their lives. It is a normal response experienced by many during difficult times.
However, for some people, worry can be persistent, difficult to control, and debilitating. If your worry
becomes intrusive and impacts on your ability to carry out every day tasks, you might have anxiety.
In order to diagnose Anxiety, a number of factors are considered;
Duration of symptoms – usually at least 6 months
Impact of symptoms on functioning - must cause impairment to every day life
You might also experience;
àFeeling restless and tense most of the time
àDifficulty concentrating
àSleep disturbance
àRacing heart, tightening of the chest
àPhysical tension
àIrritability
àTiredness
àShaking, sweating, or hot and cold flushes
It is important to seek professional help if you experience all or most of these symptoms. Diagnosing
anxiety can be tricky, but requires assessment and observation by a psychologist or doctor.
Everyday tips for managing Anxiety
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Get moving – exercise is proven to assist in stress reduction, anxiety management, and overall mental
health wellbeing. Physical activity releases endorphins, our ‘happy’ hormones!
Get more sleep – most adults need a minimum of 6 hours per night for optimum functioning. Set a
bedtime routine and try to stick to it.
Decrease stress – identify any external stressors you may be able to control or eliminate
Talk to a friend, family member or colleague
Learn calming techniques such as relaxation and controlled breathing – there are some great apps out
there that can guide you through a myriad of relaxation exercises!
Consider learning mindfulness or meditation – through group classes, interactive online learning, or
guided tracks
Take time out for pleasurable activities
Learn to recognise the early warning signs of escalating anxiety, and intervene early – try going for a
quick walk to change the scenery, or take 10 slow breaths from your diaphragm
If your anxiety persists despite these lifestyle changes, it might be time to seek professional help.
Psychologists are trained in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, amongst many other mental health
issues. Treatment can involve specific therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and medication is
also sometimes required.
If you would like to know more or seek further support for your anxiety, the Employee Assistance Program
(EAP) allows you to access up to 6 professional, confidential psychologist appointments per year. Call Life
Matters Psychologists on (02) 4965 3530 or visit our website at lifematters.com.au to book an appointment
today.