Every one of us has worries and concerns, things we find difficult to cope with and challenges in our lives. It is part of human nature and an inbuilt response to ensure we are alert to potential dangers.
At times we have the strength to bite the bullet, count to ten, take a deep breath and get on with it. We might be struggling under the surface, but manage to do what we need to get done. We might feel a great sense of relief, or even achievement when we’ve managed to confront and get through something that has tested us.
At other times, the barriers can seem much greater and impenetrable. We may want to do something, but the challenge feels too great, too daunting. We fear what lies ahead and the anticipation alone can prevent us from even giving it a go. In this situation, we might make excuses or actively remove ourselves from situations that could lead to that fear.
This type of fear can be debilitating, it can hold us back and even prevent us from doing things we enjoy. We may find ourselves withdrawing in order to avoid difficult or embarrassing situations. We may notice physical symptoms including stomach pain, sweating, fainting, eczema and nausea at the thought of our fear.
It’s Good to Talk
If we feel anxious, it can be difficult for us to think and respond logically. We might find it hard to express what is wrong and get angry or frustrated with others that ask if we are alright. Equally, we may feel embarrassed by what others may perceive as ‘nothing to worry about’. We can see everyone else coping just fine, whilst we feel weak and in a state of panic.
It is however good to talk. The crucial factor is finding someone with whom you feel confident to be open and honest with. This might be a good friend or family member who will listen without judgement. Sometimes just having the opportunity to speak can help you to articulate your thoughts and make some sense of what’s going on in your head.
If you are looking for professional support, a counsellor with experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy could help you to challenge your thought process, and offer techniques to help you manage your response to specific things. They will take your fears and feelings seriously and help you to find a route towards reduced anxiety.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is not a miracle cure and you are likely to need to attend a number of sessions where gradual progress can be made. Having said this, if you are ready to take action to deal with the things that are holding you back, CBT can be a very empowering process. It allows you to regain control over your thoughts and actions.
Our brain is a complex organ which constantly undertakes a vast array of tasks without us even realising. Most of the time our brain helps us to function, but at times the connections can be out of sync and cause us problems. If you live in South Buckinghamshire and would benefit from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Amersham based Cognisant PDC can help you to make the changes that will allow you to live life to the full.