Anxiety is a normal response to stress and can help us out of a dangerous situation. But it can also be a disabling condition. Stress feeds negative emotions such as anxiety and depression.
Typically, individuals seek psychiatric treatment which often comprises a mixture of talking therapies and medications. For some, these treatments work, but for others, the side effects of the medications outweigh their positive effects.
More people are turning to alternative and natural remedies. These have been widely studied and have proven to positively affect reducing anxiety and stress.
But What are Anxiety and Stress?
Generalised anxiety refers to uncontrollable and excessive worries about everyday events/activities. Twice as many men as women are affected and between 5-9% of the population has been affected. For those with this condition elements of daily life such as completing tasks or going to work can be overwhelming.
Diagnosis is made when stress, caused by constant worry, significantly impacts daily living and quality of life is significantly impaired.
In the vast majority of cases, some 85%, generalised anxiety is not the only condition presenting but is accompanied by other psychological problems. Typically, these include:
- Variants of anxiety such as panic attacks, social anxiety, and phobias
- Depression
- Digestive problems
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight Issues
- Substance abuse
There is not a precise known reason or trigger for these disorders, but it is known that they are a combination of social stressors, brain changes and traumatic experiences. Some research suggests genetics play a factor.
Natural and Alternative Remedies.
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Acupuncture.
The practise of traditional Chinese medicine is based on stimulating specific points of the body, by inserting small needles into the skin. This non-invasive treatment increases the heart rate variability during and after sessions to promote healing.
When performed regularly, clients reported a decrease of hypertension, therefore, a decrease in psychological stress.
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Hypnotherapy.
Hypnotherapy uses relaxation techniques. This primary method regulates the neurohormonal flow responsible for our emotions and physical state: muscle tension and pain sensation. When we are calm and relaxed, our body begins the process of self-repair; the neurohormonal flow adjusts to the body’s needs. Catastrophic thinking such as anxiety, agitation and anger make the healing process more difficult by slowing down this process.
This is when hypnotherapy comes in to help regulate the flow of neurochemicals. Hypnotherapy calms and relaxes not only the mind but the body allowing it time to repair. The process takes this one step further by using the subconscious to alter negative thinking patterns. So even when not in hypnosis the process is still working.
Once anxiety is installed in our bodies, we become exposed to high levels of stress. It is important to know the signs and recognise them both in ourselves and in those around us.
If you would like to try Acupuncture or Hypnotherapy please contact us to arrange an appointment.
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