Anxiety Therapists in Singapore
Anxiety: What’s Normal and What Isn’t
It is normal to feel anxious when the situation calls for it. When stakes are high and performance is crucial, feelings of anxiety help keep our bodies ready for action.
If anxiety persists for an extended period of time and affects your day-to-day living, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders can be debilitating conditions that affect both our mental and physical well-being, but they can be managed with the help of a psychiatrist, psychologist, counsellor or therapist.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Panic Disorder
This type of anxiety disorder is used to describe a person who experiences random panic attacks in day-to-day life without any apparent cause or triggers. A panic attack can consist of sweating, chest pains, severely elevated heartbeat, choking or symptoms that feel like a heart attack.
Specific Phobias
When a person experiences extreme fear of a particular stimulus or situation, we call this a phobia. Flying, blood, spiders and snakes are examples of phobias that are commonly experienced. When facing their phobias, people will tend to freeze up; experience severe tremors; have a racing and pounding heart; and rapid, shallow breathing.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
A person with this type of anxiety disorder has excessive worries about everyday matters for a long period of time (typically six months or more). Some other symptoms of GAD include restlessness, fatigue, trouble concentrating, irritability, muscle tension and sleep disturbances. Such a person may also have trouble making commitments, and find it tough to decide on day-to-day matters.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
When a person has repeating, distressing and intrusive thoughts of images and urges to perform certain actions or rituals over and over, this person may have OCD. In general, such a person knows that these actions are not rational but still has trouble stopping the behaviour. Their excessive fears of things that are otherwise minor causes them to repeatedly take precautionary or salutatory measures to that end. Washing hands repeatedly for fear of infections, constantly checking that the door is locked when going out for fear of burglary are some examples of OCD behaviour.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Victims of an extreme situation – combat, child abuse, rape or natural disasters – may develop PTSD. People with this type of anxiety disorder tend to be excessively vigilant, experience flashbacks of the extreme events, see everything as threats, experience excessive anger, and may have sleep problems.
Causes of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are generally caused by any combination of the following factors:
Biological Causes
A person has chemical imbalances in the body, typically an excess of cortisol (the ‘stress’ hormone).
Genes
The family tree of the anxious person is full of similar cases.
Upbringing
Being exposed to traumatic or stressful situations in their early years may cause people to experience anxiety when presented with similar situations.
Triggers
Triggers are events or situations that can lead to the onset of anxiety symptoms in individuals who have an anxiety disorder. Triggers can be different for each person, and some may not experience any triggers at all. However, understanding your triggers and learning how to manage them can be an important part of anxiety treatment.
Common triggers for anxiety disorders include:
- Stressful life events such as a death in the family, divorce, or job loss
- Social situations such as public speaking, meeting new people, or attending large gatherings
- Health concerns such as chronic illness or a history of trauma or abuse
- Certain substances like caffeine, alcohol, or drugs
- Environmental factors such as loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are a type of mental health condition that can significantly impact an individual’s life. They can cause excessive worry, fear, and nervousness, making it challenging to carry out daily activities. Understanding the signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
The following are common signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders:
Excessive Worrying
Individuals with anxiety disorders experience uncontrollable and excessive worrying about various aspects of life, including work, school, relationships, health, and finances.
Physical Symptoms
Anxiety disorders can cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, nausea, and dizziness.
Avoidance
Individuals with anxiety disorders may avoid situations or activities that trigger their anxiety, such as social gatherings, public speaking, or crowded places.
Irritability
Anxiety disorders can make individuals feel irritable, easily frustrated, or angry.
Sleep Disturbances
Anxiety disorders can cause difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are sudden, intense episodes of fear and physical symptoms that can occur with anxiety disorders.
It is important to note that not all anxiety disorders have the same symptoms. The specific symptoms and severity can vary depending on the type of disorder. Therefore, if you suspect that you or someone you know has an anxiety disorder, seeking the help of a mental health professional in Singapore such as a therapist is recommended. This can help individuals with anxiety disorders manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
How to deal with anxiety
Even without medication, we can undertake some of these stress-busting activities to stay calm in the face of anxiety or stress:
- Step back from the stressful situation
- Take care of our diet
- Reduce alcohol and caffeine
- Sleep well
- Exercise frequently
- Breathe deeply.
- Count slowly.
- Commit to action.
- Make light of the situation.
- Stay positive.
- Talk to a friend.
If taking these steps don’t seem to help your symptoms, you should seek help from a psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist or counsellor for help in treating your anxiety.
We believe in tackling anxiety with a holistic programme that may include counselling, group therapy and if necessary, medication by our psychiatrists, counsellors, psychologists and therapists in Singapore.
Anxiety Counselling and Therapy in Singapore
Anxiety is a common mental health issue in Singapore, affecting many individuals of all ages. Fortunately, effective treatments are available to help people manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. One such treatment is anxiety counselling, which can be very beneficial for those struggling with anxiety.
Anxiety counselling is a type of talk therapy that focuses on identifying the underlying causes of anxiety and developing coping strategies to alleviate symptoms. During counselling sessions, you will work with a trained therapist in Singapore to explore the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that contribute to your anxiety. You will also learn new skills and techniques to help you manage your symptoms more effectively.
There are several different types of anxiety counselling therapy available in Singapore, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and exposure therapy. CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on accepting present experiences and committing to valued actions, aiming to enhance psychological flexibility and well-being. It encourages individuals to be present, engage in values-based actions, and develop a compassionate relationship with their thoughts and emotions. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach that combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness practices, helping individuals develop skills to manage emotions, improve relationships, and promote positive behavioural changes. It emphasises acceptance, validation, and finding a balance between acceptance and change. Mindfulness-based therapy helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings and teaches them to live in the present moment. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing individuals to anxiety-provoking situations to help them build resilience and overcome their fears.
It’s worth mentioning that anxiety counselling is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your therapist will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan based on your unique needs and circumstances. They may also recommend other treatments in Singapore, such as medication or lifestyle changes, to help you manage your anxiety.
If you’re interested in anxiety counselling in Singapore, it’s important to seek out a qualified and experienced therapist. At Promises, we have a team of mental health professionals who specialise in anxiety disorders and have a proven track record of helping individuals achieve symptomatic relief. With the right treatment and support, you can overcome your anxiety and enjoy a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety Counselling in Singapore
When Should I Go for Anxiety Therapy?
Experiencing worries is a common human experience, and having occasional worries is not indicative of having an anxiety disorder. However, if you experience the following symptoms, it may be helpful to seek counselling in Singapore from a reliable therapist:
- Anxiety that interferes with your daily activities and relationships with others
- Inability to achieve important goals due to anxiety
- Avoiding social situations, such as work or school, due to anxiety
- Experiencing extreme biological responses, such as inability to sleep or shortness of breath, due to anxiety.
What to Expect from an Anxiety Counselling Session in Singapore?
An anxiety counselling session in Singapore typically starts with an assessment of your anxiety, whether it is a general sense of fear and worry, social anxiety, or anxiety related to particular situations. After that, a mental health professional such as a therapist will provide psychoeducation about anxiety and the anxiety cycle, suggesting personalised strategies or interventions to suit your requirements. These can involve:
- Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or muscle relaxation
- Cognitive restructuring
- Keeping a worry journal
- Designating a specific time of the day as “worry time”
- Systematic desensitisation (for specific phobias)
What Is the Link Between Anxiety and Depression?
Anxiety and depression are strongly interconnected. When coping mechanisms fail and anxiety is left unchecked, it can spiral into depression or dysthymia.
The long-term effects of anxiety can lead to poor health, disturbed sleep, chronic stress, and depression. Some long-term sufferers may require medication to cope with their anxiety, which can raise concerns about potential side effects. However, in some cases, medication can be a crucial step in reducing anxiety levels to a manageable level, allowing individuals to seek counselling in Singapore with more ease.
What Would the Fees Be Like?
At Promises Healthcare, we understand the importance of transparency when it comes to the fees for our services. As fees may vary depending on the specific treatment plan and duration, we encourage you to visit our page regarding our fees on our website for detailed information. Our page provides a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with our services, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Our Anxiety Team includes (but not limited to):
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ADDRESS:
#09-22/23, Novena Medical Center,
10 Sinaran Drive, Singapore 307506.
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TELEPHONE:
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+65 6397 7301
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