HOW CAN COUNSELLING HELP WITH ANXIETY?

Counselling can help individuals understand the nature of their anxiety. This will include the causes and triggers of their anxiety, as well as both the physical and emotional symptoms that are experienced.

Identifying negative thoughts and beliefs: Counselling helps individuals identify negative thoughts and beliefs contributing to their anxiety. They are encouraged to challenge and replace these thoughts with more positive and adaptive ways of thinking. 

Developing coping strategies: Counselling can be used to help individuals develop healthy coping strategies for dealing with anxiety. These could include relaxation techniques, mindfulness and positive self-talk.

Managing stress: Stress can be a major contributor to anxiety. Counselling can help individuals to understand and manage their stress through a variety of techniques.

Addressing underlying issues: Often underlying emotional or psychological issues may be contributing to an individual's anxiety. These could include past traumas, relationship issues or low self-esteem. 

Improving interpersonal relationships: People suffering from social anxiety, or phobias can be helped through counselling which is aimed at improving interpersonal relationships.

Exposure therapy: In some cases, counselling could include exposure therapy. This is a type of therapy which helps individuals gradually face and overcome their fears and anxieties in a safe and controlled environment.

Medication management: Counselling can also be used in conjunction with medication management, which can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and improve overall functioning.

It is important to note that anxiety is a complex condition. Different types of anxiety may require different approaches. A counsellor will work with the individual to better understand their specific needs and will go on to tailor the therapy to suit the individual's unique situation.