Anxiety occurs due to our bodies natural response to sensing danger. Adrenaline rushes through our bloodstream preparing us to take action, either run away or fight (flight or fight). We may feel sick, dizzy or light headed. Our heart beats faster and blood pressure increases as blood is sent to our arms and legs , in preparation for our choice of action. As blood flow is diverted to the limb muscles, muscles in our stomach and intestine relax, causing our stomachs to churn and us to feel nauseous.
Experience of anxiety may influence our behaviours in that ; you might avoid situations where you experienced anxiety, avoid people, only go out at quieter times to certain places, or feel the need to be accompanied by a friend or family member. These behaviours are known as “safety behaviours”. The use of such safety behaviours only serves to keep the anxiety going. Cognitive behavioural therapy helps you to confront feared situations or events, which may seem uncomfortable initially, but in time you will learn that you can enjoy the once feared situation and the anxiety goes away.