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Understanding Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and How Rapid Transformational Therapy Helped Me Overcome It




Anxiety is something many of us experience at different points in our lives. It’s that unease, the constant "what ifs," and the feeling that something bad might happen in the future. But sometimes, anxiety isn’t even tied to anything specific, it can just appear, as if from nowhere, with a sense of impending doom or panic. Understanding anxiety requires delving into the many factors that contribute to it, from subconscious worries to physiological influences. When you recognise what causes anxiety, you can gain clarity on what’s real and what’s just a creation of your anxious mind.


My Personal Journey with Anxiety


After suffering from debilitating anxiety for most of my life, I can finally say it’s no longer a constant presence. Thanks to Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), I was able to get to the root cause of the anxiety that had held me back for decades. It might sound strange, but the anxiety originally came into my life as a protective mechanism. When I was younger, it helped me cope with challenging situations. As I grew into adulthood, I no longer needed that protection, as I had the tools to protect myself. RTT helped me realise that the anxiety was simply my mind’s way of trying to keep me safe. Understanding this, and working through these old patterns with RTT, was incredibly transformative and it can be for you too. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages who have struggled with anxiety, helping them uncover the root causes and guiding them through a transformation so they can live a life free from anxiety.


What Causes Anxiety?


Anxiety can stem from a variety of sources, and its causes are often interconnected. Here are some of the factors that contribute to anxiety:


Stress, whether from work, relationships, or life events, ongoing stress can trigger anxiety.

Health Issues, chronic illnesses, hormonal imbalances, or even poor diet can have a profound impact on mental health.

Financial Challenges, worries about money or financial security often lead to anxiety.

Caffeine and Stimulants, excessive caffeine or certain drugs can exacerbate anxious feelings.

Medication Side Effects, some medications, especially stimulants or those affecting the nervous system, can worsen anxiety.

Mental Health Disorder, anxiety is common in conditions like generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety.

Trauma and PTSD, past traumatic events, particularly unresolved trauma, can contribute to chronic anxiety.

Bereavement, grieving the loss of a loved one can bring about deep anxiety.

Childhood Trauma, experiences like childhood sexual abuse can leave a long lasting impact, contributing to anxiety.

Conflict and Environmental Pressures, ongoing stress or conflict in your environment can increase anxiety.

Family History, if anxiety runs in your family, you may be more predisposed to experiencing it.

Negative Thinking Patterns, those who tend to overthink or ruminate may be more prone to anxiety.

Relationship Stress, problems in intimate relationships or strained connections can trigger anxiety.

Sleep Issues, poor sleep quality or deprivation can worsen anxiety.


5 Warning Signs of Anxiety


Anxiety can manifest in many ways, mentally and physically. Here are five warning signs to watch out for:


1. Trouble concentrating or making decisions: Anxiety clouds your thinking, making it hard to focus.

2. Feeling irritable, tense, or restless: Increased anxiety often leads to irritability and restlessness.

3. Nausea or stomach distress: The gut-brain connection means anxiety often triggers stomach issues or nausea.

4. Heart palpitations: Racing heartbeats or irregular heart rhythms can be alarming and are common symptoms of anxiety.

5. Sweating, trembling, or shaking: Anxiety activates the fight-or-flight response, causing physical symptoms like shaking or sweating.


Other Symptoms of Anxiety


Beyond these warning signs, anxiety can also lead to:


  • Trouble sleeping or insomnia

  • Shallow, rapid breathing

  • A constant sense of dread or impending doom

  • Feeling overwhelmed or out of control


Coping with Anxiety: What You Can Do to Help Yourself


While anxiety can be overwhelming, there are numerous strategies you can use to manage it and reduce its intensity. These actions will help you regain control over your emotions and build resilience against future anxiety:


Diaphragmatic breathing: Deep breathing helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, counteracting the fight-or-flight response.

Exercise: Regular physical activity releases feel-good endorphins that can help lower anxiety.

Healthy diet: Nutrient-rich foods and supplemets can support brain health and regulate mood.

Learn about anxiety: Understanding how anxiety works helps you challenge irrational thoughts and reduce fear.

Relaxation techniques: Meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can bring calm and reduce stress.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These substances can heighten anxiety, so cutting back may help.

Journaling: Writing down your thoughts can clear your mind and release emotional tension.

Mindfulness: Being present in the moment can reduce overthinking and anxiety.

Stay active: Physical activity can help redirect anxious energy in a positive way.

Connect with nature: Spending time outdoors can have a calming effect on your mind and body.

Identify triggers: Track what causes your anxiety so you can prepare for or avoid triggers.

Prioritise sleep: Good sleep is essential for mental health, and proper rest can help manage anxiety.

Therapy: Speaking with a therapist can help you address the root causes of anxiety and develop coping skills.


A Simple Grounding Technique


One of my favorite techniques I use with clients to manage anxiety and calm the nervous system is a grounding practice that helps shift your focus to the present moment. Here's how it works:


1. Begin by closing your eyes and taking a deep breath in, filling your stomach as much as you can, then exhale fully, letting your stomach deflate. Repeat this process three times.


2. Transport yourself to your favorite place—this could be a cherished holiday spot or a safe, peaceful space where you feel comfortable and secure.


3. Now, engage your senses:

- Look around and notice 5 things you can see in your special place.

- Tune in to your hearing and identify 4 sounds you can hear.

- Focus on your sense of smell and find 3 scents you can detect.

- Pay attention to your sense of taste and notice 2 tastes you can identify.

- Finally, connect with your sense of touch and identify 1 thing you can physically feel.


4. Bring all of your senses into focus and take a moment to notice what you’re feeling. Where do you feel it in your body? Does it have a color? What does that color represent to you?


This simple practice helps break the cycle of anxious thinking and brings you back to the present moment. It’s an easy technique to use anytime, anywhere, and it doesn’t require any special tools.


How RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) Can Help With Anxiety


If you’re looking for a transformative way to address the root causes of your anxiety, RTT could be exactly what you need. RTT combines aspects of hypnosis, coaching, and cognitive behavioral therapy to uncover the subconscious causes of anxiety, reprogramme negative thought patterns, and promote lasting emotional healing.


RTT helps identify the root causes of anxiety, often revealing deep seated beliefs and past experiences that contribute to your current anxiety. By addressing these root causes, RTT works to reframe and rewire your subconscious mind, leading to long term relief from anxiety.


In my case, RTT helped me uncover why anxiety had been such a constant companion in my life. I was able to release those old beliefs and patterns, and I no longer needed my mind's protective mechanism, which was anxiety.


Conclusion


Anxiety doesn’t have to rule your life. By understanding its causes, recognising the warning signs, and taking action through coping strategies or therapies like RTT, you can begin to regain control. Whether you’re managing anxiety through self care practices like mindfulness, exercise, and sleep, or seeking professional help through counseling or RTT, it’s possible to find peace, calm, and emotional freedom.


Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and with the right tools and support, anxiety can be managed and overcome.



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