Anxiety Cornerstone Page Anxiety: Understand, Manage and Overcome

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can disrupt your everyday life. It goes beyond occasional worry or stress, affecting your relationships, job performance and overall happiness.

If you're dealing with anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Recognising the issue and seeking professional help is an important first step.

What Causes Anxiety?

Anxiety often arises from multiple factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality traits and life experiences. Common triggers include:

• Significant life stressors (job pressures, financial worries, relationship issues)
• Health problems or chronic illness
• Traumatic experiences
• Family history of anxiety disorders
• Substance abuse

Recognise the Signs of Anxiety

Anxiety symptoms vary but often include:

• Persistent worry or fear
• Feeling restless or on edge
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
• Irritability
• Muscle tension
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or disrupted sleep)
• Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking or nausea
• Avoidance of certain situations or activities

Myths about Anxiety

Myth: Anxiety is just worrying too much. Truth: Anxiety is a serious mental health condition that requires professional attention.

Myth: You can easily overcome anxiety by relaxing or being positive. Truth: Anxiety often needs targeted therapeutic interventions and coping strategies.

Why Seeking Help Matters

Untreated anxiety can intensify over time, affecting your physical health and emotional wellbeing. Getting professional support can:

• Help manage and reduce symptoms
• Teach effective coping mechanisms
• Restore your ability to function normally in daily activities
• Enhance overall life satisfaction

How MeHelp Psychology Can Assist You

MeHelp Psychology specialises in evidence-based anxiety treatments delivered by experienced psychologists. Our services include:

• Tailored Therapy: Personalised support to address your unique triggers and symptoms.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Techniques to identify, challenge and change anxious thoughts and behaviours.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Tools to accept difficult emotions and commit to meaningful actions.
• Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations to reduce fear and avoidance.
• Mindfulness Techniques: Strategies to stay grounded and manage anxiety in the moment.

Real-Life Example

Emma, 29, experienced severe anxiety about public speaking and social interactions. She avoided important work presentations and felt isolated socially. With the help of a MeHelp psychologist, Emma practised CBT and exposure therapy. Gradually, she regained confidence, successfully presented at work and enjoyed an improved social life.

Practical Steps You Can Take Today

• Regular Exercise: Even brief physical activity helps reduce anxiety symptoms.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Daily mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or meditation can calm your mind.
• Maintain Routines: Structured daily routines create predictability and reduce uncertainty.
• Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: These substances can worsen anxiety symptoms.
• Seek Social Support: Regularly connect with supportive friends, family or groups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can online therapy effectively treat anxiety?‍

Yes. Research confirms online therapy is highly effective in managing anxiety disorders.

How long before therapy helps reduce anxiety?

Many clients experience noticeable improvement within a few sessions. Consistency and active practice of coping techniques between sessions significantly enhance results.

Is a referral needed to book with MeHelp psychologists?

No referral is necessary. You can book directly with any psychologist on our team.

Do Medicare rebates apply to psychology sessions?

Yes. If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you can receive Medicare rebates for your psychology sessions.

Take the First Step

Anxiety doesn't have to control your life. The psychologists at MeHelp Psychology are ready to support you with effective, compassionate care. 

Book your first session today and begin your journey towards freedom from anxiety.