Anxiety, Stress and PTSD

Stress and anxiety are both a part of the body’s natural fight or flight response. When someone feels under threat, their body releases stress hormones. These stress hormones cause the heart to beat faster, resulting in more blood pumping to the organs and limbs, getting them ready to either fight or run away. When this happens breathing becomes more rapid and blood pressure increases.  At the same time, senses become sharper, and the body releases nutrients into the blood to ensure all parts of the body have the energy they need. This process which is known as ‘stress’ happens very quickly.  Anxiety is the body’s response to that stress. 

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Many people will recognise anxiety as the feeling of distress, unease, or dread that is felt before a significant event. It’s purpose is to retain alertness and awareness. The fight or flight response can kick in when someone faces a physical or emotional, real or perceived threat. While it can be useful, for some people, it can interfere with everyday life.

Because symptoms are so similar it can be hard to tell them apart.

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In general stress tends to be short term and in response to a recognised threat. Anxiety can linger and can sometimes seem as if nothing is triggering it, which for some people interferes with daily life leading to an anxiety disorder which can be debilitating. 

PTSD is a stress disorder caused by a traumatic experience. Symptoms include feeling very anxious, flashbacks, nightmares and difficulty sleeping.

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At Asense Therapy hypnotherapy, counselling and associated techniques are used to help to overcome stress, anxiety or PTSD in a safe, warm confidential and supportive way.