Anxiety
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In a sentence
Anxiety is a feeling of worry or fear that can be mild or overwhelming.
What it can feel like
- Racing thoughts or worrying a lot
- A fast heartbeat, tight chest or upset stomach
- Finding it hard to relax or sleep
Why it might be happening
Anxiety can follow stress, big changes or difficult experiences. Pressure from family, work or study, and experiences of racism, can add to it.
Things you can try now
- 1Try slow breathing: in for 4, out for 6
- 2Name five things you can see
- 3Limit caffeine later in the day
How therapy can help
A psychologist can help you understand what is going on, make sense of it in the context of your life, and try approaches with good evidence behind them. These Abantu psychologists work with this:
Not sure who to choose? We'll help
For family and friends
Listen without rushing to fix it. Ask what would help, and let them know you are there.
Supporting a family member
Related listening
- Calm breathing for when anxiety rises · 1 min
- Setting aside worry time · 1 min
- Grounding with your senses · 0.7 min
If you need help now
Abantu isn't an emergency service. If you or someone else is in danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option, or call Samaritans free on 116 123.
More urgent helpLetters from Abantu
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