Counselling for Anxiety in Calgary

Anxiety is a very prevalent disorder in our culture today. As a matter of fact, according to a 2014 survey, over 3 million Canadians suffer from some form of anxiety. This is a disorder that most of us have (or will) experience at some point in our lives.

And its crippling effects can devastate us.

For this reason, it’s important that if you – or someone you know – is struggling with severe anxiety that you seek professional help as soon as you can. 

But if you’re curious to learn about what produces anxiety, as well as some potential therapeutic solutions, then keep reading. Because we are taking an in-depth look into how anxiety starts and what you can do about it. 

What Causes Anxiety?

First off, let’s begin by saying a little anxiety is a normal and natural part of living. We all experience it to certain degrees. So try not to lose any sleep over any unwarranted feelings of uneasiness. 

But with that being said, many people struggle with anxiety disorders to the point where it is impacting their lives in a very negative manner. 

Many factors can contribute to anxiety disorders. A few of them are as follows: 

• Drugs and Alcohol: If you’re abusing drugs or alcohol, you’re a prime candidate for anxiety or panic attacks (in addition to a whole host of other disorders and ailments) due to how these substances affect the body. 
• Genetics: This is most likely the worst way anxiety can be formed, simply because you have no control over it. But the unfortunate truth is many times, anxiety disorders are hereditary. This is not to say it’s the only (or even the main contributing factor), but it is something to be aware of.
• Personality and Temperament: Certain personality variations can be more prone to anxiety disorders than others.
• Accumulated Stress: The stressors of life can add up over time and become a much bigger problem down the line if not properly addressed. Some examples include a family illness, work-related problems, overdue bills, etc. 
• Trauma: If you had a traumatic experience as a child (abuse, neglect, abandonment, etc), you may be more susceptible to developing an anxiety disorder. 

Symptoms of Anxiety

The effects of anxiety can come in many forms. That’s why it’s prudent to know what to be on the lookout for. 

Here are a few symptoms that may indicate an anxiety disorder:

• Feeling fearful, uneasy or strained
• Having a feeling of imminent danger or trepidation
• An enhanced heart rate
• Rapid breathing, as if you’re hyperventilating  
• Perspiring
• Shaking
• Feeling fatigued
• Difficulty concentrating on anything other than the concern you currently have
• Nauseous

Now that you’re familiar with what causes anxiety as well as the symptoms it inflicts, let’s take a look at some possible treatments. 

Treatments for Anxiety Disorders

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

Typically, this is the first form of therapy we recommend. But of course, this will all be based on your unique circumstance. CBT is a pragmatic form of psychotherapy. It assists people with developing skills and techniques to become and stay robust and healthy.

CBT concentrates on the present, it works on the issues that arise in everyday life. CBT assists individuals with analyzing what’s taking place in the world around them. And the new insights gained through this form of therapy then allow you to see how your perceptions impact your emotional state.

Play Therapy

A form of therapy designed mainly for children, Play Therapy caters to kids because they have yet to develop the ability to process emotions and articulate experiences the way that adults can. 

A licensed therapist will utilize playtime to watch children until certain realizations into the kids’ issues become apparent. As such, the counsellor aids the child with diving into feelings and managing unaddressed emotions. The child learns coping strategies through play that can help reorient ill-suited behaviour. 

Mindfulness

MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) is a kind of psychotherapy that blends meditation, cognitive therapy, as well as a “here and now” demeanour, in addition to an unbiased perspective. This is what is known as “mindfulness”.

Medication

Anxiety is a difficult disorder to manage. For this reason, medications are available. Our team of expert counsellors can assist you with support as well as figuring out which medication is most appropriate for your condition. 

Typically, an all-natural solution is what we aim for. However, we also understand that everyone is different, and for some, medication may be necessary to help quell symptoms and bring a sense of normalcy back to your life. 

Psychoeducation

Here at Family Psychology Place, our team of psychologists will supply you with the necessary information to help you fully understand your disorder. People fear what they don’t understand, and by educating you in this manner about your condition, you will be less likely to fear it as you’ll have a much more in-depth comprehension of what you’re dealing with. 

This will lead to both peace of mind and a better quality of life.