Anxiety counselling is a particular focus of our work here at AJR Counselling Coaching and Consulting.

In these uncertain times, a new kind of anxiety is surfacing: Christmas anxiety.

Will we be able to travel to see our loved ones, or will omicron mean things are shut down?

Initial reports say it's more infectious but less severe than Delta, but the UK is taking it very seriously, and reported more than 88,000 cases a few hours ago.

The uncertainty can leave you feeling powerless and anxious. Many of us have been unable to see our loved ones for a very long time, and have been looking forward to seeing them at Christmas.

Limit your intake of news as much as possible, as it can make anxiety a lot worse. Some believe the number of hospitalisations should be the focus of news reporting, but the media is concentrating on the number of cases.

Remember, omicron is believed - at this stage - to be less dangerous than previous strains.

Our sessions are available in person and online, and we can help you develop strategies to help you manage anxiety.

The symptoms of anxiety include but are not limited to:

 Fear that something bad is about to happen

 Increased heart rate

 Shortness of breath

 Trouble concentrating

 Nausea

 Dry mouth