Anxiety| Public Health Campaign

Most people feel anxious at times. It's particularly common to experience some anxiety while coping with stressful events or changes, especially if they could have a big impact on your life.

The 'fight, flight or freeze' response – it's something that happens automatically in our bodies, and we have no control over it. (Mind)

Signs and Symptoms

When is anxiety a mental health problem?

Anxiety can become a mental health problem if it impacts your ability to live your life as fully as you want to. For example, it may be a problem if you identify with any these:

What can I do and when should I seek help?

Anxiety and Change

Moving house?

Moving countries?

Children moving school?

Deployment?

Living in the military community we experience change a lot and sometimes this can be at very short notice.

Watch this video to find out how to deal with anxiety from change:

Controlling your anxiety

Sometimes we get caught in a vicious cycle.

Anxious thoughts ➡️ uncomfortable feelings ➡️ making choices that are restrictive/limiting.

It can be helpful to notice those thoughts as they arise and then consider whether the fears are justified. If they seem to be exaggerated, try responding in a more balanced/helpful way. Other ways that can help:

A natural way of tensing and relaxing your muscles is through physical activity. When you exercise, your brain produces chemicals such as Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Endorphins which make you feel good.

Controlling your breathing can help you relax and regain control.

Practice creating an image of your special place when you feel anxious. Your calming place should be somewhere that feels very special to you. Practice creating this image in your mind and try to make it as real as possible.