Anxiety Problems

It is normal to feel anxious when you’re genuinely threatened or in danger. An anxiety problem is when it’s excessive, or when it happens in situations which are really harmless. Anxiety problems are of two kinds- phobia and generalised anxiety.

A phobia when you feel extreme anxiety about something that isn’t actually dangerous. Most people who have a phobia can still feel calm and confident in other situations. Some people can confidently face real dangers, yet be very afraid of something that’s not dangerous at all!

When someone has no specific phobia, but is generally anxious in all situations about quite ordinary things, this is called Generalised Anxiety Disorder.

Somebody with a generalised anxiety problem will be worried rather than interested and excited by the thought of meeting someone new, or going somewhere you’ve never visited before. They constantly check the time, study timetables, and go over instructions over and over again. They are constantly alert for signs of danger, but pay little attention to more pleasant things. Even when nothing’s happening, the anxiety is always there, like a background noise.

Yes, absolutely! Even more so with phobias. A person with cat phobia knows perfectly well that cats are harmless. Telling them that cats are harmless doesn’t help- it’s just annoying to be told something you know already!

It’s very frustrating. People with severe anxiety or phobia see other people enjoying life to the full, while they struggle. They know that other people can keep safe and healthy without constant checking and obsessing. They want to live carefree but their brain won’t let them.
They often feel stupid because they’re anxious for no reason. But anxiety and phobia can affect even very intelligent people.

Yes indeed. Many people who can confidently handle real dangers are terrified of something which isn’t dangerous at all. And many high achievers and famous people have phobias and anxiety problems.

Yes, in fact most of my clients have suffered phobia or anxiety for years before seeking therapy. They have built their lives around avoiding the things they fear.

People with emetophobia (fear of being sick) avoid restaurants, which limits their social life. If they go abroad they are afraid to try new foods. They become especially anxious if they hear of a “bug” going round. They avoid small children. They can’t cope even with their own children if they are sick. They cannot watch a film if it includes someone being sick. They clean obessively and cannot stand to share a bathroom. They may wash their hands 40 times a day until their hands are red and sore.

Very often, with the right approach. About half my clients have already been to other therapists, counsellors, and even other hypnotherapists. Sometimes the previous therapist was not skilled or experienced enough, sometimes the client was not ready.

Just click HERE to find my contact page. Or if you want further information first, just use the form below to join my mailing list and receive more information on this topic by email.

No problem, just use the contact form to email me with your question.