We help people develop and grow with life's challenges

Anxiety

About anxiety

Anxiety is a common response to stress, but when it becomes persistent or excessive it can interfere with daily life. In Australia, the ABS 2020-21 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing found about 1 in 6 adults experienced an anxiety disorder in the previous 12 months.

How anxiety can show up

  • Worry and rumination: Persistent "what if" thinking that is hard to switch off.
  • Physical arousal: Racing heart, tension, stomach upset, or feeling on edge.
  • Avoidance and safety behaviours: Steering clear of feared situations or relying on rituals for relief.
  • Panic or acute episodes: Sudden surges of fear with intense physical sensations.
  • Sleep and concentration changes: Restless sleep, fatigue, or difficulty focusing.
  • Impact on daily life: Reduced confidence, social withdrawal, or limitations in work and study.

Further information about anxiety

  • Generalised anxiety: Ongoing, wide-ranging worry about everyday life.
  • Social anxiety: Fear of judgment, embarrassment, or scrutiny in social settings.
  • Panic disorder: Recurrent panic attacks and fear of them returning.
  • Specific phobias: Intense fear of particular objects or situations.
  • Health anxiety: Persistent concern about illness or bodily sensations.

Self-help ideas for anxiety

  • Practise slow breathing or grounding exercises when anxiety rises.
  • Limit caffeine, alcohol, and screens late at night to support sleep.
  • Use gradual exposure to gently face avoided situations.
  • Schedule regular movement and time outdoors.
  • Capture worries in a journal to make them feel more manageable.

When to see a psychologist or counsellor

Extra support can help when anxiety is persistent or limiting your life.

  • Worry or fear feels present most days for weeks or months.
  • Avoidance is shrinking your world or affecting relationships.
  • Panic attacks or intense physical symptoms occur.
  • Stress impacts work, study, sleep, or overall wellbeing.

How we help with anxiety

  • Evidence-based therapy focused on understanding and reducing anxiety.
  • Skills for managing worry, panic, and anxious thoughts.
  • Gradual exposure planning to rebuild confidence.
  • Support for underlying stressors, trauma, or life transitions.