Anxiety is something we all experience from time to time; an important job interview, when we think of sitting an exam or that first date.

Anxiety is an inevitable part of everyday life, in which it is appropriate and reasonable to react with some anxiety. 

Anxiety is a normal response to stress or anger and is often referred to as the “flight or fight” syndrome. Theses emotions help one to survive by ensuring that we are alert and responsive to danger.

The problems arise when people’s response (anxiety) is out of proportion to the actual danger of the situation, or that it is generated when there is no danger present.

Definition of Anxiety

“Unpleasant and unwanted feelings of apprehension sometimes accompanied by physiologic symptoms”

University of Iowa Family Practice Handbook, Fourth Edition, 2003

What is the nature of Anxiety?

A number of factors can trigger anxiety.

It may be a distressing past experience, where you become anxious about encountering the situation again in case you experience the same distressing feelings. 

One may also feel anxious about “losing control” of the situation or themselves, or about “something bad happening” .

Effects of Anxiety

Anxiety affects your whole being, body and mind, resulting in a physical, psychological and behavioural response to the anxiety.

On a physiological level, some of the symptoms of anxiety can include: headaches, nausea (feeling sick), muscle tension, sweating, dry mouth or irregular heartbeat.

On a behavioural level, it can influence your ability to deal with certain everyday situations or your ability to express yourself.

Psychological symptoms of anxiety can include: irritability, feelings of agitation, a sense of dread, difficulty with concentration or sleep disturbance amongst others.