Where to begin...it has been a while since my first thoughts of writing a blog began.The thing is, I love writing, I always have. Regardless of my many hats in life, as a primary school teacher, and now, an Integrative psychotherapist/counsellor with a person centred focus, new ideas, transitioning with the seasons are all met with levels of anxiety. So here goes!

This first blog begins with: How anxiety presents for me, then,

• What anxiety is? and
• What may help?

Anxiety presents, for me physically, for example sleepless nights. I would toss and turn and could not get rid of the ruminating thoughts, and psychologically, for example fearing the worse. One day, I literally could not get out of bed. I ignored any warning signs, and convinced myself ‘I’ll be alright tomorrow...I just need some rest...’ I did not get better, and went to see my doctor, and a collective decision was made to try counselling.

My anxiety varied from one situation to the next. It ranged from being mild to moderate, to a level where it became difficult to function. It was only when I was able to reach a place to reflect, that I was able to identify why my anxiety escalated, and the reasons behind this.

What works for me is being present, and recognising my own warning signs. For example, recognising my ‘uh-oh’ moments, when my tide was/is unsteady.  Things started to improve, when I became more self-aware. I made my own small steps to recovery, through counselling/psychotherapy, and learning. Learning to be patient. Learning what works for me. And learning to understand. My learning still continues to this day.

• As you read , I invite you to take a moment to be mindful of what may/or may not be coming up for you...

What is anxiety?

An online definition defines anxiety as‘ feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain.. outcome.’

Small doses of anxiety is ok , and can be used to help us get through some of our challenges. However if this builds up, this can change the way we think, feel and behave.

How does anxiety present itself?

Anxiety can present when we least expect it. It can vary from person to person. It may be difficult to explain.  We may not have  learnt to identify or recognise what is coming up for us. Maybe, we just don't know. You may not be able to put your finger on it, but know something’s not right. What we feel or /experience on the inside, may not be visible on the outside. Symptoms may be physical, behavioural, or psychological.

For me,  understanding the importance of self-care and self-discovery,  helped me through some of the challenges I have faced. I have accessed counselling and psychotherapy, at various stages of my life, and found various approaches suited my needs at the time. I see my life as a journey, and I still continue to learn about myself, and who I am.

As a counsellor/psychotherapist, I can provide a space where you are given space and time, to explore and discover (or re-discover) who you are.

What may help you?

• GP- may be a place to start. If you are experiencing low moods, finding daily tasks difficult please seek medical advice.

• Seeking help from a counsellor/psychotherapist- talking through, and unpicking the source may be a start. Or, questioning your current situation e.g. work, finances, relationships.

• Take a holistic approach to your mental health- are there other factors that may be adding to your anxiety, questions like nutrition, gut health or, global events, can contribute to anxious thoughts/behaviour.

• Engaging in creative activities- art, mindfulness, yoga, journalling, reading. These are some examples of what has helped me.

What would your creative activity be? When was the last time you did something you enjoyed? When was the last time you engaged in an activity that made you smile?

And finally, what am I taking away from writing my first blog? I loved it! It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Once I started writing I did not want to stop. My creative flow was engaged... 'oooh I want to add pictures, graphics, colour...(not sure how, I am willing to give it a go!). Setting personal manageable boundaries, yet being free to let it flow, was a starting point.

Naturally, I am tempted to go back, punctuate, add this, add that! I’m going to stop, knowing at this stage in this moment, what I feel, what I know, is enough.