MindMatters

Anxiety

The feeling of anxiety is a normal response for all of us, especially when we have an upcoming stressful event, such as: an exam, a sporting match or a due date. These responses are normal, as we are perceiving a future ‘threat’. When our feelings of anxiety get to a stage of being so intense and happening the majority of the time so that our day-to-day living is being negatively impacted, that is when we should be concerned about our wellbeing. 

Anxiety often presents itself through physical symptoms such as: increased heart rate, the sensation of ‘butterflies in the stomach’ and muscle tension. Anxiety can also disrupt our sleep patterns, ability to concentrate and negatively impact on how we socialise with our friends and family. A good start to battling anxiety, is to seek help early and find techniques that help us relax and feel calm. This helps us take back some control and manage those overwhelming feelings. 

There are useful resources and information about Anxiety available on Headspace, Reachout.com and Youth Beyond Blue that help students and their families gain a better understanding about what is happening, helpful tips and what to do next.Here is a link to a great article which helps explain anxiety, because knowledge is the key to helping yourself and others: http://www.heysigmund.com/anxiety-in-kids/ . Please remember that students can seek further assistance from the school counsellor or Headspace if they feel that anxiety is taking over their world.