Anxiety is a natural human response designed to help us recognise potential threats and prepare to respond. In many situations, anxiety can be helpful — encouraging us to prepare, stay alert, or respond to challenges. However, when anxiety becomes frequent, overwhelming, or difficult to manage, it can begin to affect daily life, relationships, sleep, and overall wellbeing.
Anxiety often shows itself in different ways for different people. Some notice racing thoughts, constant worry, or imagining worst-case scenarios. Others experience physical sensations such as a tight chest, restlessness, headaches, muscle tension, or difficulty relaxing. At times, anxiety may also appear through changes in behaviour, such as avoiding certain situations, overthinking decisions, or feeling constantly “on edge.” Recognising these signs is often the first step in understanding what your mind and body may be trying to communicate.
Rather than seeing anxiety as something to simply “get rid of,” counselling can provide a supportive space to explore what may be contributing to these feelings. Anxiety is often connected to stress, uncertainty, past experiences, pressure to meet expectations, or times of significant life change. When we begin to understand the underlying experiences linked to anxiety, it can start to feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Counselling can help you develop awareness of triggers, notice patterns in thoughts and emotional responses, and explore coping strategies that feel supportive for you. This might include learning grounding techniques, developing self-compassion, exploring helpful thinking perspectives, or building practical ways to reduce stress in everyday life. Over time, many people find that understanding their anxiety helps reduce both its intensity and its impact.
Most importantly, anxiety does not have to be something you manage alone. Having a safe, non-judgemental space to talk openly about what you are experiencing can make a meaningful difference. Taking Strides Counselling offers in-person sessions in Weston-super-Mare as well as online and telephone counselling across the UK, providing flexible support wherever you are. If you would like to learn more or arrange an initial appointment, please get in touch.
This blog post is offered for reflection and information only. It is not intended to replace counselling or professional support. If you feel you need additional help, you’re encouraged to seek support that feels right for you.