Normal anxiety or an anxiety disorder?

Anxiety is first of all a useful reaction. Faced with danger or with something at stake, the body goes on alert: the heart beats faster, breathing changes, attention narrows. This alarm system prepares us to act, then settles once the situation has passed.

We speak of an anxiety disorder when this alarm goes off too often, too strongly or without any real danger, when it lasts over time and when it causes significant distress or disruption in daily life. Anxiety disorders are among the most widespread mental health difficulties. They affect people of all ages and backgrounds, and are in no way a sign of weakness of character.

The different forms of anxiety

Generalised anxiety

This shows up as excessive, hard-to-control worries about many everyday matters: work, health, loved ones, money. They are often accompanied by muscle tension, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating and sleep problems. We speak of generalised anxiety disorder when this state has been present most of the time for several months.

Panic attacks and panic disorder

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes: palpitations, a feeling of suffocation, tightness in the chest, trembling, dizziness, a sense of losing control or of dying. These attacks are very frightening but not dangerous in themselves. When they recur and the fear of having another one sets in, we speak of panic disorder.

Phobias

A phobia is an intense, disproportionate fear of a specific object or situation: flying, public transport, enclosed spaces, animals, blood, driving… It usually leads to avoiding whatever triggers it, sometimes at considerable cost.

Social anxiety

Social anxiety is the fear of being judged, watched or humiliated in social situations: speaking up in a meeting, meeting new people, eating in front of others. It goes beyond shyness and can hold back your professional, social or romantic life. It can be heightened when you have to function in a foreign language or an unfamiliar culture.

Other difficulties are close to anxiety, such as obsessive thoughts accompanied by checking or rituals, or the reactions that follow a traumatic event (see trauma and PTSD). Identifying precisely what form your anxiety takes makes it possible to tailor the support.

When to seek help

It can be helpful to see a psychologist when:

  • worry is present almost every day and stops you from relaxing;
  • you have had one or more panic attacks and dread them happening again;
  • you avoid places, activities or encounters for fear of what you might feel;
  • your sleep, concentration or energy are affected over time;
  • you use alcohol, cannabis, screens or other means to calm the anxiety;
  • anxiety is weighing on your work, studies or relationships.

Some physical symptoms of anxiety (palpitations, chest pain, breathlessness) can also have a medical cause. If in doubt, it is important to talk to a doctor, especially if these symptoms are new.

How I can help

Psychotherapy is one of the first-line treatments for anxiety disorders. My approach is integrative: I combine several tools depending on what your situation calls for.

  • Understanding your anxiety. Together we look at what triggers it, how it shows up in your body and your thoughts, and what keeps it going. Making this cycle visible often already reduces its hold.
  • Practical tools. Cognitive behavioural techniques help loosen anxious thoughts, gradually step out of avoidance and learn to move through feelings of anxiety rather than run from them. Work on breathing and emotional regulation gives you resources for difficult moments.
  • Meaning and context. Anxiety is often rooted in a personal and family history, a period of change or difficult relationships. Systemic, existential and psychoanalytic approaches make it possible to explore what is at stake beyond the symptom.

For some people, a few sessions focused on a specific goal are enough; for others, longer work is helpful. We decide together. When anxiety is very disabling, medication can be discussed with your doctor or a psychiatrist, alongside psychotherapy. You can find out more about my approach.

How sessions work

The first appointment is a chance to get to know each other, understand what brings you and answer your questions. Subsequent sessions last about 50 minutes, at a frequency we agree on together according to your needs.

I see clients at the Cabinet paramédical des Brotteaux, 134 rue de Sèze in Lyon 6th, close to the Brotteaux and Charpennes metro stations. Sessions are also possible by video, which can be invaluable when anxiety makes travelling difficult, and which also allows you to continue from abroad. I work in English, French and Portuguese. Fees and practical details are on the home page.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do during a panic attack?

Remind yourself that the attack, however frightening, will subside on its own within a few minutes. Slowing your breathing, with a longer out-breath, and focusing on your surroundings help you get through it. If it is the first time, or if you are unsure about the cause of the symptoms, see a doctor or call the emergency services (15 in France).

Can anxiety disappear completely?

Anxiety is part of life and remains useful. The aim is not to eliminate it, but for it to find its proper place: less invasive, less frequent, and something you can move through without it dictating your choices. Many people see a clear improvement with psychotherapy.

Could my anxiety be hormonal?

Hormonal changes linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the postpartum period or perimenopause can influence mood and anxiety. It is a subject I pay particular attention to (see women and hormonal life). It is also worth discussing with your doctor or gynaecologist.

Do you see anxious teenagers?

Yes. Anxiety is common in adolescence, particularly around school and relationships. I see teenagers in a confidential setting, working with their parents when that helps (see adolescence).

Useful resources