Anxiety Disorders
10 million people in the UK are affected.
What are the causes of anxiety disorders?
Because many factors can increase the chance of developing an anxiety disorder, everyone’s experience of anxiety will be different. It is thought that there is no single cause, but several factors interact to increase your chance of developing an anxiety disorder:
Genetically inherited:
Research shows that having a close relative with anxiety problems might increase your chances of having anxiety problems yourself.
Past or childhood experiences:
Common triggers for anxiety problems are related to difficult experiences in childhood as experiencing extreme stress and trauma can have a big impact. Experiences such as:
- Physical or Emotional abuse
- Neglect
- Losing a parent
- Being bullied or being socially excluded
Current Life Situation:
- Stress such as work pressure, living up to expectations.
- Poor living situations such as homelessness or money problems
- Traumatic events such as bereavement, being abused or harassed, experiencing natural disasters. (See also PTSD_
Physical or Mental Health problems
Anxiety triggers can be caused by chronic illness or mental health problems such as depression.
Drugs and Medication
Anxiety can, in some cases, be a side effect of certain medications. Recreational drugs and alcohol can also increase anxiety.
Self-help and complementary approaches:
There are different ways that can help with anxiety.
Talking to someone
Good stress relief just may involve having someone listen to you without judgement. Samaritans or Anxiety UK are helplines that can support you when you’re going through anxiety.
Support communities also help and may make you feel less alone. Finding people who experience the same disorder can also help and offer great advice. Support groups such as:
- No More Panic
- Triumph Over Phobia UK
- Join Side by Side, Mind’s supportive community.
Manage your anxiety and worries.
Giving a dedicated time and safe place to worry can provide reassurance. This may involve writing down your worries, meditating and breathing exercises to relieve your worries.
Look after your physical health.
As researchers have shown physical problems can sometimes trigger anxiety. Make sure to look after yourself by considering your sleep, diet and exercise.
Breathing exercises for stress and relaxation
For more information on breathing exercises and techniques. (See webmd)
Yoga
Several studies have shown that yoga may help reduce stress and anxiety as it can enhance your mood and oversee a sense of well-being.
Meditation or Relaxation
Meditation may help you learn to be more mindful and aware of the present moment without judgement.
Aromatherapy, Massages, Reflexology
These services may help improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit.
Herbal remedies
There is some evidence for the potential effectiveness of herbal remedies such as Passiflora species extracts and Kava.
What help and resources are available for people who need support or further advice?
Information and advice:
By gaining a better understanding of “Anxiety Disorder” recognising more symptoms and signs as well as gaining more access to services and supports. You will gain the right support and help necessary for you.
- Anxiety Care UK, Anxiety UK
- NICE – National Insurance for Health and Care
Treatment:
Treatment will provide you with the right support and help you cope with your anxiety. It is vital to reach out for help if you think you have symptoms of an anxiety disorder.
- Visit GP: They will do an assessment together you can decide together what might suit you.
- Mind
- Local Minds
- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Support groups:
Support groups help you through your anxiety disorder, they help you feel less alone, you could offer and receive advice from people who are experiencing the same disorder.
- Side by Side
- Samaritans
- Anxiety UK
You don’t have to deal with this alone, self-help is a great start point but there are plenty of professional avenues for you to explore and help is available when you’re ready to ask for it.
All Elwood employees are provided access to a Health and Wellbeing coach as part of their EAP (Employee’s Assistance Programme) which includes monthly Yoga sessions when required.