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Soft Shadow Patterns

Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is something most people experience at times. It is your body’s natural way of trying to protect you when something feels stressful, uncertain, or overwhelming.

But when anxiety sticks around or feels intense, it can start to take up a lot of space in your life. You might find yourself constantly worrying, overthinking, feeling on edge, or struggling to relax. Sleep can be harder, small tasks can feel bigger than they should, and it can become tiring just trying to get through the day.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Experiences of chronic anxiety often are a sign that you have been carrying a lot.

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At Gentle Growth Psychology, we offer a calm, supportive space to slow things down and make sense of what you are experiencing. Together, we take small, manageable steps to help you feel more steady, more confident, and better able to cope with life’s ups and downs.

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Common types of anxiety conditions 

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Social anxiety
A strong fear of being judged, embarrassed, or getting something “wrong” around others. You might replay conversations afterwards, worry about how you’re coming across, or avoid social or work situations altogether. Often, this develops after experiences of feeling criticised or unsafe, and reflects your body’s natural effort to protect you from rejection or hurt.

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Agoraphobia
Anxiety about being in places where leaving, getting help, or feeling in control might be difficult, such as crowded spaces, public transport, or being far from home. You may start avoiding certain environments or only go out with lots of preparation or support. This is often your body’s way of seeking comfort and predictability.

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Panic disorder
Experiencing sudden, intense waves of fear or physical symptoms like a racing heart, dizziness, chest tightness, or shortness of breath that can feel overwhelming or frightening. These “panic attacks” can seem to come out of nowhere, and the fear of having another one can add extra stress. It’s like your body’s internal alarm going off too quickly, even when you are not necessarily in danger. This can also lead to avoiding situations where you anticipate that same anxious or trapped feeling might return.

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Generalised anxiety
A constant, hard-to-switch-off sense of worry about many parts of life, such as health, relationships, work, or the future. Your mind may feel busy with “what if” thoughts, while your body carries ongoing tension or fatigue. It can feel like always being on high alert or holding a lot of responsibility.

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Specific phobia
A strong and focused fear of a particular thing or situation, like flying, heights, animals, or needles. Even thinking about it can trigger intense fear, leading you to avoid it where possible. The reaction can feel automatic, as though your brain is trying to keep you safe from harm.

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Therapy may gently supports you to:

  • Understand your anxiety as meaningful and protective

  • Reduce self-criticism and frustration toward yourself

  • Build a kinder relationship with your internal experiences

  • Find ways of responding that feel supportive and provide gradual relief 

  • Find small brave steps to work with the anxiety rather than fight against it. 

 

​How can therapy help with anxiety?

Therapy is tailored to you and may draw from a range of supportive approaches, including:

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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT supports noticing anxious thoughts and feelings with less struggle, while gently reconnecting with what matters most to you.

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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you understand the links between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, so you can gently shift unhelpful patterns and respond to anxiety in ways that feel calmer and more supportive.

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Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
CFT is especially supportive when anxiety is accompanied by self-judgment or shame, helping to develop a warmer and more reassuring inner voice.

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Need extra support?

 

If anxiety feels heavier at the moment, or you would like a little extra guidance and reassurance, you do not have to navigate it alone. There are supportive, evidence based resources you can explore in your own time.

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