What Is Anxiety? A Plain-English Guide (AU)
- revivalht
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 20 hours ago
Anxiety is more than “feeling stressed.” It’s a pattern of thoughts, body sensations and behaviours that can linger—even when nothing obvious is wrong.
This short guide explains common signs, simple first steps, and when to get help in Australia. If you’re still deciding whether you're suffering from stress or anxiety, start with our stress vs anxiety differences guide.
We support online clients in Perth, WA, and across Australia.
Common Signs of Anxiety
Anxiety can show up in the body, mind and behaviour. Use this list to spot the patterns you notice most.
Body: tight chest, restlessness, dizziness, stomach/gastrointestinal upset
Mind: looping “what-ifs”, catastrophising, hard to switch off
Behaviours: avoiding tasks, reassurance-seeking, poor sleep
Want something scannable? Try our anxiety symptoms checklist.
Anxiety vs Normal Stress (Quick Distinctions)
Both can feel uncomfortable, but they behave differently—this quick comparison explains how.
Trigger: stress has a clear cause; anxiety may not
Duration: stress fades when the situation changes; anxiety lingers
Relief: stress eases with rest/time; anxiety needs targeted techniques
(Deep dive: see stress vs anxiety differences.)
Simple Steps That Help - Right Now
Start small and repeatable. These quick actions can lower tension in a few minutes.
4-7-8 breathing (2–3 mins): inhale 4, hold 7, exhale 8 (6–8 cycles)
Body first: brief movement, sip of water, shoulder roll
Name it: “My body’s on alert; I can bring it down.”
Free Guide: Calm Your Mind in Minutes
5 therapist-approved techniques + a relaxing audio.
When To Seek Help In Australia
If symptoms hang around or get in the way of daily life, it’s time to get support—here’s a simple rule of thumb.
If symptoms last more than two weeks, feel frequent/intense, or limit work, relationships or sleep, speak with your GP or a qualified professional. For immediate support, Lifeline 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue provide help across Australia.
Where Hypnotherapy Fits
Anxiety support can include education, lifestyle changes, breathing/relaxation, psychological therapies, and—in some cases—medication under a doctor’s care. Hypnotherapy can complement this by easing overthinking, supporting calmer breathing and improving sleep cues.
We offer online sessions across Australia. See what a hypnotherapy session looks like and decide if it suits you.
You can read more about how we help at our Anxiety and Stress Relief page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What does anxiety feel like?
A. Common signs include a tight chest, restlessness, dizziness, upset stomach, and looping “what-ifs.”
Q. How is anxiety different from stress?
A. Stress usually has a clear cause and fades once it passes; anxiety can linger and show up without an obvious trigger.
Q. What can I do right now to feel calmer?
A. Try 2–3 minutes of steady breathing (e.g., 4-7-8), take a short walk, and have a glass of water. Then name what you’re feeling.
Q. When should I get professional help?
A. If it lasts over two weeks, is frequent/intense, or affects work, sleep or relationships. In Australia, speak with your GP or call Lifeline 13 11 14.
About The Author
Steve Hebble, Clinical Hypnotherapist (Perth, WA). Steve works with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, offering calm, structured sessions and take-home skills to support change.
Disclaimer: Information here is general and doesn’t replace medical advice. If you’re concerned about safety or symptoms are severe, speak with your GP or call Lifeline 13 11 14.
Ready For Personalised Support?
Book a Free Discovery Session and we’ll map a plan that suits you.
Comments