What triggers anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal mental and physical reaction built into the body to protect us.  However, it can become overactivated.

Part of the brain called the Amygdala (the alarm system) can trigger fear and dread, where physical symptoms like fast heart rate, tension in the body regarding future and uncertain threats. 

It can become a loop of mental and bodily distress that often occurs without imminent danger, aiming to keep us safe by going into overthinking mode and trying to control the future, which can hinder the ability to remain in the present.

Anxiety when not tackled can shrink the world we live in from a place of safety to one that is built around fear and self-protection.

What Are the Signs of Chronic Anxiety?

Chronic anxiety can exist both mentally and physically in the following ways:

Mental & Emotional Symptoms of Chronic Anxiety

• Constant Dread: A persistent, often irrational feeling that something bad is going to happen.

• Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, racing thoughts, or a blank mind.

• Irritability & Restlessness: Feeling constantly "on edge," jumpy, or unable to relax.

• Avoidance: Steering clear of certain places, objects, or social situations that trigger anxiety.

Physical Symptoms of Chronic Anxiety

• Muscle Tension: Chronic aches, muscle spasms, or tension headaches.

• Fatigue & Insomnia: Feeling chronically weak, tired, or having trouble falling and staying asleep.

• Cardiovascular & Respiratory Issues: Noticeably strong or fast heartbeats (palpitations), shortness of breath, or sweating.

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Upset stomach, nausea, or frequent trips to the bathroom.

What is a Panic Attack and how does it feel?

Panic attacks can appear out of the blue with no evidence of a stressor. You might feel physical symptoms of:

·      Rapid, pounding, or racing heart

·      Shortness of breath, hyperventilation, or a choking sensation

·      Chest pain or abdominal cramping

·      Trembling, shaking, or sweating

·      Dizziness, light-headedness, or feeling faint

·      Nausea or a churning stomach

Or Mental / Emotional Symptoms:

·      An intense feeling of impending doom or danger.

·      A fear of losing control or dying.

·      Feelings of unreality or detachment (dissociation) 

How to Calm Anxiety: What to Expect in Our Sessions

In our sessions we will gently uncover the root causes of your distress.

I provide a safe, calm, and non-judgmental space where you can slow down and unpack your thoughts. Together, we will work to:

• Quiet the inner critic and halt the spiral of negative thinking.
• Understand your body’s signals, turning physical panic into manageable calm.
• Explore root causes to see where these anxious patterns first began.
• Reclaim control over your choices, your confidence, and your daily life.

My Integrative Approaches

I blend evidence-based modalities to give you deep insight, clarity, and relief:

• Person-Centred Therapy: To ensure you are always heard, validated, and leading the pace of your own healing journey.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Identify, challenge, and rewire the negative thought loops that keep you trapped.

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Uncovering the unconscious emotional conflicts and unresolved childhood experiences that fuel your anxiety. Bringing hidden patterns to light, process emotions and develop healthier ways to cope.

• Mindfulness: To ground your nervous system and soothe physical symptoms like chest tightness, restlessness, or racing heartbeats.

Fees & Location

• Session Fee: £60 per 60 minute in-person session (Online video and telephone sessions available from £50–£55)

• Location: Sessions are held in a comfortable, confidential practice space located at 11 Dormer Place, Royal Leamington Spa, CV32 5AA.

Take Your First Step Toward Calm

You deserve to live a life that is defined your values, not by fear. Let's work together to help you breathe a little easier.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for educational and marketing purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.