Common Anxieties and Their Management

Anxiety can take many shapes. A racing mind, a restless body, or a feeling that something’s wrong even when life seems fine. Many people come to Bayside Psychotherapy after trying strategies such as CBT, hypnosis, medication, or mindfulness apps, only to find that the worry returns. When that happens, it often means the deeper emotional patterns behind the anxiety haven’t yet been addressed.

At Bayside, we work with people who want to understand their anxiety at its causes, not just manage the symptoms. Our experienced Melbourne based therapists use approaches such as psychotherapy, CBT, hypnotherapy, and mindfulness-based work. Each case is different, and together we’ll decide which combination of methods is likely to help you most. Sessions are available both in person at our Highett clinic and online.

Understanding Anxiety

Feeling anxious from time to time is part of being human. But when anxiety starts to shape your choices or stops you from feeling at ease, it’s often a sign that something deeper is asking for attention.
You might notice:

• Constant worrying or overthinking that doesn’t switch off
• A sense of dread or restlessness, even when things are “okay”
• Trouble sleeping, concentrating, or relaxing
• Physical tension, racing heart or tightness in the chest

Therapy gives you space to slow things down and explore what your anxiety might be protecting you from. Often it isn’t simply “irrational fear”. It’s a learned pattern from past experiences that once kept you safe but now gets in the way.

When You’ve Already Tried Everything

Many people come to us after trying short-term or skills-based therapies that helped for a while but didn’t last. That doesn’t mean those methods failed. It usually means there’s more to uncover beneath the surface.
Psychotherapy offers a chance to gently explore the emotions, memories, and beliefs that fuel the anxious cycle. By bringing those into awareness, you can start to relate to yourself differently, rather than fighting your anxiety each time it appears.

What You Can Expect

You’ll meet with a qualified therapist who listens carefully and works collaboratively with you. Some clients focus on understanding emotional patterns through psychotherapy. Others prefer a more structured approach using CBT or hypnotherapy. You can choose in-person or online sessions. If helpful, we can also liaise with your GP or other health professionals to support your care.

Therapy isn’t about forcing anxiety away or pretending to be calm. It’s about becoming curious about what’s behind the feelings, and learning how to respond rather than react. While every person’s experience is unique, many find that anxiety softens as nuanced understanding deepens.

When You’re Ready

Curiosity is often the first step toward change. If you’ve been wondering why anxiety keeps coming back despite your best efforts, it might be time to explore what exists beneath.
You can book a confidential appointment or call 03 9557 9113 to speak with our reception team. We’re here when you’re ready.

Types of Anxiety We Commonly Support

Here are some of the forms anxiety can take. Each link explains more about what it feels like and how therapy may help.