does anxiety need to be rationalised?

[Bodey294]

Hi there,

my feelings of anxiety are becoming more visible to me. there are circumstances where i feel anxious for no reason at all (or maybe i haven't delved into enough). eg before i go to the bathroom i have to cautiously listen up against my door for a few minutes to know if anyone is outside in the corridor, if someone is out there i hold it even if I'm busting, until i hear complete silence and feel confident enough to go. eg I sometimes skip meals because (i cant cook) Im too afraid i might be intercepted on the way by people at my university (i live on campus).  i don't know how to control my anxiety and don't know why I'm feeling this way. so i wonder, does there need to be an external (social, environmental, family, peers, work life) reason for someone to have anxiety or can it be something else? 

thank you 🙂

[Zeal]

Hi Bodey,

It does sound like you have anxiety. Living on campus could actually be a real benefit to you in terms of overcoming your anxiety. First, going to class and meeting people is very accessible, and so you are at less risk of becoming socially isolated. Also, all universities in Australia (I'm pretty sure) have a counselling service of some kind. They are often free or very cheap, and they are completely confidential. Walk into the centre and make an appointment with the receptionist. You may not feel overly comfortable with the idea at first, but it could be what really helps you in the long-run.

Best wishes,

SM