Alex's Answer

Hi there, you are very welcome to Ask Alex.  

Thank you for reaching out to us. We understand that it’s not always easy to share how we’re feeling, but we also know how important it is to talk about our worries and concerns.  

You have asked what to do if you have anxiety. Before we look at what we can do to help with anxiety, we need to understand exactly what anxiety is.  

Anxiety is a feeling of worry or fear that everyone experiences at times. You can feel anxious or worried when you are concerned about something you are experiencing or that is about to happen. For example, a test, speaking in public, a job interview or a social occasion. Feelings of anxiety are your body’s natural reaction to some stressful or dangerous situations. They focus your attention and can help you react. A healthy amount of anxiety is OK and can keep you safe. But anxiety can sometimes build up over time and be difficult to manage. 

There are many things you can try to help you learn how to manage feelings of anxiety. But because anxiety can manifest in various ways, different strategies work for different people. Some find relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness helpful, while others benefit from talking to a trusted friend, family member, or a professional therapist. Remember that you don’t have to go through this alone; seeking support is a sign of strength. Other strategies may include keeping a diary and recording how you are feeling at certain times of the day; develop a better sleep routine; maintain a healthy diet; or engage in physical activity that can you to burn off stress and relax. 

Remember, it’s completely normal to feel these things from time to time, but it’s also important to talk about them and get help when needed. One resource which you may find helpful is the Digital Mental Health and Wellbeing Programmes available through the ISPCC. These programmes offer valuable support and guidance for managing anxiety, and you can access it at your own pace, with a supporter along the way. There is lots more information about them here www.ispcc.ie/guided-digital-programmes/. 

If you would like to talk about this in more detail, you are very welcome to chat to us through our freephone service on 1800 66 66 66 or through our webchat service, by clicking on the purple Messenger circle at www.childline.ie. Childline services are free and confidential, and are available 24 hours, 7 days a week.   

Thank you for reaching out to us.  

Take care,    

Alex