Anxiety And Panic Attacks

Anxiety is more than just feeling tense, scared and on edge. It can lead to physical symptoms too-palpitations, feeling sick, dry mouth, sweating, chest pain, and shortness of breath

. These are part of the "fight or flight" response which prepares us to face sudden danger. However, if you suffer from anxiety, these symptoms can come on with even just the smallest stress. You may also find yourself worrying about anything and everything, unable to relax or control your racing thoughts.

Panic attacks are extreme episodes of anxiety. Along with all the physical symptoms above, you may also feel as if you're choking, or get pins and needles (especially around your lips or in your hands and feet). You may also feel dizzy or as if you're going to faint. It can sometimes feel as if you're dying, or as if you've stepped out of your body, so what's happening isn't real.

Treatment for anxiety and panic attacks is largely similar. Understanding what's happening- and why - can often make a huge difference.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talking therapy which helps you to understand the unhelpful spiral of negative thoughts that stem from your feelings. You can then learn to challenge these thoughts and replace them with more realistic ones.

It does take time but it works well for more than half of people with panic attacks and anxiety.

Mindfulness - where you concentrate on the here and now can be really effective i the longer term. However, it does take practice - often, it's hard not to let your mind drift after even a minute or two. However, don't worry if you don't succeed at the first-just stick with it and build yourself up slowly.