Anxiety can creep in slowly, or hit all at once. For some, it’s a constant undercurrent, a tight chest, restless thoughts, a feeling that something bad is just around the corner. For others, it shows up in short bursts, making it hard to breathe or focus. Whatever shape it takes, anxiety can have a real impact on your day-to-day life.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, you’re far from alone. It’s one of the most common mental health issues in the UK, with millions of people experiencing it each year. It affects how you think, how your body feels, how you sleep, and even how you relate to those around you. And while anxiety is incredibly common, that doesn’t make it any less difficult to live with.
The good news is, support is available and there are ways to feel better.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is more than just worrying. While everyone feels nervous or on edge from time to time, anxiety becomes a problem when those feelings are frequent, intense, and interfere with your ability to function or enjoy life.
It’s a natural response to stress or danger your body’s way of preparing you to respond. But in anxiety, that alarm system becomes overactive, even when there’s no real threat.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety doesn’t look the same for everyone, but here are some of the ways it may show up:
- A racing heart or feeling light-headed
- Muscle tension or restlessness
- Trouble sleeping or waking up tired
- Difficulty concentrating
- A sense of dread or panic
- Feeling constantly “on edge”
- Avoiding certain places or situations
- Stomach problems, headaches or nausea
Some people have panic attacks, which can feel overwhelming and frightening. Others may feel anxious all the time without really knowing why. Whatever your experience, anxiety is valid and treatable.
Why Does Anxiety Happen?
There isn’t a single cause. Anxiety often develops from a mix of life events, personality traits, and biological factors. Understanding what’s behind your anxiety can help make sense of it — and guide the kind of support that may work best for you.
Past experiences
Difficult or traumatic events, especially in childhood, can leave a lasting impression. Even if those events happened long ago, they can shape how your nervous system reacts to stress today.
Ongoing stress
Work pressures, financial worries, relationship issues, and parenting can all contribute. If you’re constantly juggling responsibilities or feel like you’re never quite on top of things, anxiety can build slowly in the background.
Physical health
Hormonal changes, thyroid issues, or long-term illnesses can affect your mood and increase anxiety. Some people also find that poor sleep, caffeine or alcohol make their symptoms worse.
Family patterns
If anxiety runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself. This could be down to both genetics and learned behaviours.
How Anxiety Affects Daily Life
One of the most frustrating things about anxiety is how invisible it is to others. From the outside, you might seem fine, even successful or confident. But on the inside, it can feel like your mind never slows down.
You may find yourself avoiding things you used to enjoy, withdrawing from people, or feeling exhausted just from keeping it together. Over time, anxiety can chip away at your self-esteem, relationships and overall wellbeing.
Some people live with high-functioning anxiety, pushing themselves to achieve or stay in control, while constantly battling inner tension. Others may find anxiety leaves them frozen, unable to act, trapped in cycles of worry and avoidance.
The impact is real. But it doesn’t have to be permanent.
Therapy for Anxiety: Finding What Works for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but many people find that talking to someone who understands can make a real difference. Therapy offers a space to make sense of your experience and start to untangle the thoughts and feelings that feed your anxiety.
As a clinical hypnotherapist trained in Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), I work with people to explore the deeper emotional patterns that may be behind their anxiety not just the symptoms, but the root causes, you can learn more about my RTT anxiety support here.
RTT combines elements of hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioural techniques, and guided self-reflection. It’s not about quick fixes or surface-level advice, but about helping you understand what your anxiety is trying to tell you, and how to respond in a way that feels calmer and more grounded.
Many clients are surprised at how quickly they begin to feel clearer and more in control not because the anxiety has magically disappeared, but because they’re no longer overwhelmed by it.
Can Online Hypnotherapy Help with Anxiety?
If the idea of leaving the house, sitting in a new space, or speaking face-to-face fills you with dread, you’re not alone. One of the lesser-talked-about aspects of anxiety is how much effort it takes just to show up.
That’s why I offer online sessions. It allows you to access support in the way that feels most comfortable, from your own home, with no commute, no waiting rooms, and no added stress. All you need is a quiet space and an internet connection.
Many clients tell me that being in their own space helps them feel safer and more open. And it’s just as effective as in-person work.
While I’m based in Harrow, I work with people across the UK. So wherever you are, support is within reach.
When Should You Get Help for Anxiety?
You don’t have to wait until things feel unmanageable. If anxiety is getting in the way of how you want to live, that’s reason enough to reach out.
You might find therapy especially helpful if:
- You’re avoiding things because of anxiety
- You can’t switch off your thoughts
- You often feel panicky or overwhelmed
- You’re using alcohol, food or distraction to cope
- You want to feel more present and calm day-to-day
It’s never too early or too late to start, Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes overwhelming, it’s important to seek help you can find reliable information and advice on the NHS website.
Living With Anxiety: Small Steps Make a Big Difference
Even small changes can start to shift the way anxiety shows up. Things like regular movement, time outdoors, cutting back on caffeine, or journalling your thoughts can help calm your nervous system.
But if you’ve tried all the usual advice and still feel stuck, you’re not doing anything wrong. Some patterns run deeper and that’s where tailored support like therapy can make a meaningful difference.
A Note If You’re Feeling Anxious Now
Reading about anxiety while feeling anxious can be overwhelming in itself. If that’s the case, take a breath, and remind yourself that you’ve taken a first step just by looking into support. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it does start somewhere and often, it starts with a quiet “maybe I could get help.”
I offer one-to-one online sessions, supporting people just like you to feel calmer, more present, and more connected to themselves. If you’d like to explore working together, feel free to get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between anxiety and stress?
Stress is usually a response to a specific situation, like work deadlines or conflict. Anxiety is more persistent and doesn’t always have a clear cause. It often involves ongoing worry and physical symptoms like restlessness or difficulty sleeping.
Can anxiety go away on its own?
For some people, it can reduce over time, especially if it’s linked to a specific life event. But if anxiety is ongoing or interfering with your life, it’s unlikely to resolve completely without some kind of support.
Is hypnotherapy safe for anxiety?
Yes. When done by a trained professional, hypnotherapy is a safe and gentle way to work with anxiety. It helps you access the subconscious mind and explore patterns that might be contributing to anxious thoughts or behaviours.
What if I get anxious during an online session?
That’s completely okay. You’ll be in a private, comfortable space and we’ll go at your pace. Many clients actually find online sessions easier, especially if they’re anxious about leaving the house or meeting someone new in person.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person. Some people notice a shift after just one session, while others require further 2-3 sessions, During our first call, we’ll talk through what’s best for you.
To learn more about my services for Anxiety, contact me today!
