Anxiety.
Definition
Anxiety can be described as being excessively worried about something for a period of time, such
that it impacts on the everyday functioning of the person experiencing anxiety. It is a condition that
commonly waxes and wanes and is more often than not associated with other mental health
symptoms, such as depression.
Anxiety is usually accompanied by a constant feeling that something bad is going to happen. Those
with anxiety sometimes worry they have a serious illness and the symptoms of their anxiety often
reinforces this in their minds. When at its most extreme, anxiety can make you feel detached from
yourself, fearful of dying or even make you think you are going crazy.
Anxiety can affect your whole being. Reactions can be physiological, behavioural and psychological
all at the same time. For example, physical reactions such as increased heartbeat, muscle tension,
sweating and nausea are accompanied by irrepressible behavioural changes in the way you deal with
situations (not being able to speak properly) and psychological reactions such as feeling extreme
apprehension and uneasiness.
Often, simply thinking about a particular situation is enough to bring on the anxiety. This is called
'anticipatory anxiety' and occurs simply by considering what might happen when you are faced with
your fears.
'Situational' or 'public anxiety' is a type of anxiety that occurs only when you are placed in a specific
situation, such as being in a crowded place, going to the dentist, or driving on busy, unfamiliar roads.
Such situations can become phobias when you begin to consciously avoid those situations.
It is estimated approximately 5-6% of people will suffer anxiety at some stage in their life. It is twice
as likely to occur in women and becomes more common after the age of 25.
Causes
Stressful life events (eg. financial difficulties, grief, trauma), physical health problems, substance use,
personality factors and a genetic tendency or family history of mental health conditions.
Symptoms
Anxiety is often accompanied by up to 3 of the following symptoms: restlessness, fatigue,
concentration problems, irritability, muscle tension or sleep disturbances. Below are some further
common symptoms. They are not designed to provide a diagnosis - for that you need to see a health
professional or GP – but they can be used as a guide.
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations/racing heart/tightening of the chest/awareness of heart beat
• Tendency to sigh or hyperventilate
• Trembling or shaking
• Sweating
• Chocking sensation
• Nausea and abdominal distress
• Numbness
• Dizziness and unsteadiness
• Digestive disturbances/constant need to use bowels or urinate
• Feeling of detachment or being out of touch with yourself
• Hot flushes or chills
• Fear of dying
• Fear of going crazy or out of control
• Snowballing worries
• Obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviour
Physiology
The main physiological feature of anxiety is abnormal levels of brain neurotransmitters, such as
serotonin, noradrenaline and GABA.
Physiological factors that may also stimulate the nervous system and contribute to symptoms of
anxiety are:
• Chronic illnesses (e.g. Heart disease, asthma, diabetes)
• Hormonal problems (e.g. Overactive thyroid)
• Infections
• Diagnosis
• Digestive problems (e.g dysbiosis and SIBO). Gut bacterial imbalances are shown to have an impact
on brain function and mood, especially symptoms of anxiety. A large percentage of the
neurotransmitters are generated in the gut.
Anxiety is diagnosed by an evaluation of your signs/symptoms, medical history and a physical exam,
this is generally conducted by a medical practitioners. Although there is no lab test to specifically
diagnose anxiety disorders your healthcare practitioner may use various tests to look for physical
illnesses as the cause of the symptoms. If no physical illness is found, you may be referred to a
psychologist, psychiatrist, counsellor or other healthcare professional for further assistance.
Anxiety can co-exist with other conditions for example, Hyperthyroidism, Blood sugar dysregulation,
Iron and B12 deficiency. Your healthcare practitioner will consider these conditions and their
relevance to your symptoms.
Factors that make Anxiety worse
• Stress
• Some medications
• Medical conditions
• Lack of sleep/sleep disorders
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Substance abuse
• Negative environments or relationships
• Poor dietary habits
Dietary Advice
Diet plays a large part in assisting your recovery from anxiety. The brain produces chemicals called
neurotransmitters, and they need the right nutrients from food to function correctly. The following is
a list of foods to include or limit/exclude.
Include
• fermented foods
• whole grains and legumes
• protein such as lean meat, turkey is beneficial
• deep-sea oily fish (consume 3-4 times a week)
• green leafy vegetables (containing B vitamins)
• berries
• nuts such as walnuts and almonds
• low glycaemic foods will stabilise blood sugar levels, helping to support healthy nervous system
and brain function.
The foods mentioned above are rich in folate, omega-3 oils, tryptophan, vitamin B, vitamin C, zinc and
magnesium.
Limit/exclude
• caffeine/coffee/Coke/chocolate/black tea - research has shown cutting out caffeine alone can often result in significantly reduced symptoms
• alcohol - avoid excessive consumption
• processed foods
• high saturated fat foods or foods containing trans-fats (such as deep fried foods, chips etc)
• sugary foods or high glycaemic carbohydrates such as breads, pastries, cakes, biscuits, lollies and
soft drinks
The best advice is to eat regularly including 3 small meals a day, plus 2 snacks, each containing
protein, as this will help keep blood sugar levels stable, preventing hypoglycaemia, which can be a
trigger.
Lifestyle Advice
Anxiety responds quite well to a natural approach, but it is important to note that without learning
how to calm both your mind and body, natural medicines do not work as well. Techniques to elicit
the relaxation response can make a huge difference to people experiencing anxiety.
There are numerous methods to quiet the body and mind. Some of the most popular relaxation
exercises and techniques are:
• Progressive relaxation, deep breathing exercises
• Meditation/ prayer/ mindfulness
• Self-hypnosis and biofeedback
• Walking - any physical activity in general can be found to have a positive effect.
• Yoga, Tai chi, Qi Gong
• Massage, Aromatherapy
• Acupuncture
• Art and hobbies
• Cognitive behavioural therapy or other psychological support may be necessary
The type of relaxation technique best for each person is totally individual;
Recordings of relaxation programs are the most effective at quieting the mind. The important thing is
to set aside at least five to 10 minutes each day for whichever technique you choose. CDs and
downloadable apps are helpful.
It is important to find work-life-balance involving meaningful work, proper rest as well as effective
sleep, physical activity, positive social interactions and pleasurable hobbies. Behavioural therapy
techniques can help you look at better managing stress. Over time your commitment to do these
practices will have the desired effect, and the anxiety will be better managed.
Good sleep is also very important to relieve symptoms of anxiety and promote neurotransmitter
synthesis.
If you practice the above techniques to relax, you may find that your sleep improves as a
consequence, and this will improve the anxiety.
Professional Treatment
Evidence from published medical studies show that nutritional and herbal supplementation is an
effective method for treating anxiety and anxiety-related conditions without the risk of serious side
effects. Treating Anxiety is very individual, so your practitioner will guide you as to the best
supplement and Natural medicines for you. Commonly prescribed nutrients may include B vitamins,
calcium or magnesium, herbal supplements and amino acids.
See also handout with "useful contacts" should you feel the need for additional or immediate support.
Do you still have questions?