top of page
anxiety counselling in Georgetown for individuals and teens

 

Anxiety Therapy in Georgetown, ON

 

What is Anxiety?

 

We all experience anxiety at different points in our lives. You'd be hard pressed to find anyone who has never felt anxious at some point.  Anxiety can actually be helpful, as it helps us be aware of danger and can therefore keep us safe.  It can also keep us alert and motivate us to prepare for upcoming stressful events.  For example, it provides us with that push we need to study for that exam, be ready fora work presentation, or practice how to propose to your fiancé.  Normal anxiety dissipates once the event has passed.  

 

There is a difference between this normal, helpful anxiety and an anxiety that is impairing your quality of life.  When anxiety causes major distress, is debilitating, is disproportionate to the event, and impairs your functioning in relationships, work, or other areas of your life, it becomes unhealthy.  It’s important to understand that there is a difference between healthy anxiety in response to a stressful situation and actually being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. There are many different types of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (the most common type of anxiety), Panic Disorder and Social Anxiety.  

I Feel So Anxious all the Time.  Is There Something Wrong with Me?

 

You are not alone, and anxiety disorders are very common.  According to Statistics Canada, anxiety disorders are among the most common types of mental disorders in Canada and have been shown to have a major impact on the daily lives of those affected. 

 

 

How do I Know if I Have Unhealthy Anxiety?  

 

Anxiety shows itself differently in different people and each type of anxiety disorder has different symptoms. 

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of unhealthy anxiety. 

 

  • a feeling of fear, worry, or unease that is persistent 

  • avoidance behaviors. You may be avoiding situations or places that have made you feel anxious in the past

  • physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating or trembling.

  • restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge.

  • difficulty concentrating.

  • Irritability.

  • feeling apprehensive or powerless

  • feeling like something bad is about to happen

  • feeling you’re in danger

  • racing thoughts

  • memory problems

 

 

 

You also need to consider if these symptoms are causing serious distress in your life (i.e. in your social life, your work, or your relationships)?  If you notice you have some, most or all of these symptoms, it is important to get help as soon as possible.

 

I feel Anxiety in My Body.  Is that Normal?

 

Absolutely!  Many people notice physical signs of anxiety before any other symptoms.  These are some common physical signs and symptoms to watch out for:

  • panic attack — a sudden, intense episode of fear

  • tension in one or many parts of their body

  • shortness of breath

  • a racing heart, heart pounding

  • sweating or chills

  • sleep disturbances (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless, unsatisfying sleep).

  • nausea or butterfly feeling in stomach

  • feeling lightheaded or dizzy

  • trembling or shaking

  • tingling or numbness in parts of body

  • feeling very thirsty

  • fatigue

 

How Can I Overcome My Anxiety?

 

You don't have to keep feeling this way.  You deserve to feel better and should get help for yourself. 

If you are experiencing unhealthy anxiety or have an anxiety disorder, you should contact your doctor, and a registered mental health professional right away. Your doctor will rule out any physical issues that may be causing your symptoms and may also prescribe medication to help you manage your anxiety.  Getting help from a mental health professional can give you the support you need.  The experienced therapists at Couples Therapy Centre will inquire about your anxiety symptoms and how they are affecting your life.  You may also be asked to complete a self-assessment to properly assess your symptoms.  You will work on developing a treatment plan which will include talk therapy, learning ways to manage your anxiety and discuss lifestyle changes that would also help you manage your symptoms.  Our therapists can help you if you've been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or just finding ways to manage your worry.  

Transform Your Anxious Mind 8 Week Program

 

Our Transformational Training program combines psychotherapy and psychoeducation to reduce your anxiety and improve your overall quality of life.  Feel supported and guided by your personal individual therapist through a structured 8 Week Program.

Say goodbye to anxiety and hello to a happier, more fulfilling you. 

 

Covered by Most Insurance Plans

bottom of page