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William Macaulay Counselling Perth

Author: William Macaulay, Anxiety Counsellor & Psychotherapist

Phone 0401 316 977

for enquiries or appointments

Understanding Anxiety: Common Symptoms and Causes

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Feeling stressed or worried is a normal part of being human. Most people experience stress or worry when under pressure or in challenging situations, and these feelings usually subside once the situation passes. Anxiety, however, goes beyond everyday stress. It can involve persistent, intense worry or fear that is difficult to control and may interfere with daily life, leading to distressing symptoms and feelings of helplessness.

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Common Symptoms of Anxiety


Emotional and Psychological Symptoms
 

Anxiety may be experienced as:

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  • Ongoing nervousness, restlessness, or tension

  • Racing, intrusive, or unwanted thoughts

  • Persistent worries about work, finances, relationships, or health

  • Specific fears related to situations or objects

  • Difficulty relaxing or switching off

  • Sleep disturbances

  • A tendency to focus on negative outcomes

  • Catastrophic thinking about the future

  • Ongoing distress related to past trauma or loss

  • Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety


Physical Symptoms
 

Anxiety can also affect the body, including:

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  • Dizziness or light-headedness

  • Changes in vision

  • Dry mouth or blushing

  • Trembling or shaking

  • Increased heart rate or palpitations

  • Rapid or shallow breathing

  • Nausea or “butterflies” in the stomach

  • Surges of adrenaline

  • Cold hands or increased sweating

  • Muscle tension or headaches

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Common Causes of Anxiety

 

Anxiety does not have a single cause. It often develops due to a combination of factors, including:

 

Stress:
Prolonged or intense stress related to work, relationships, major life changes, or traumatic experiences.

 

Unhelpful thinking patterns:
Patterns such as catastrophising, self-criticism, over-generalising, making assumptions, or holding unrealistic expectations of yourself.

 

Personality traits:
Traits such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, or a strong need for control can increase vulnerability to anxiety.

 

Early life experiences:
Traumatic, neglectful, or abusive childhood experiences can shape beliefs that the world is unsafe, contributing to ongoing anxiety.

 

Health concerns:
Chronic illness or ongoing health issues can lead to persistent worry about symptoms, treatment, or the future.

 

Genetics:
Anxiety can run in families, suggesting a genetic component.

 

Medication:
Some prescribed medications may contribute to anxiety as a side effect.

 

Alcohol and substance use:
While alcohol or drugs may temporarily reduce anxiety, they often worsen symptoms over time, particularly as their effects wear off.

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Anxiety Counselling in Perth: Seeking Professional Support

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If anxiety feels overwhelming or is interfering with your work, relationships, or quality of life, professional support can help. With the right guidance and evidence-based strategies, anxiety can become more manageable.

 

As an experienced anxiety counsellor in Perth, I offer personalised support to help you understand your anxiety, develop effective coping strategies, and regain a sense of control and confidence in daily life. Contact William Macaulay Counselling Perth today to learn more or to book an appointment.

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