This is a question I get asked a lot by people who are trying to work out if what they are feeling is anxiety or is normal for a person with anxiety.

If you haven’t read it already then I would recommend you listen to my podcast episode on the role of adrenaline on the body as this also covers many of the symptoms that people with anxiety often struggle with, you can find it here.

This list of symptoms has been taken from the NHS website[1] and covers all of the symptoms that I usually see in clinic.

• feel tired, on edge, restless or irritable
• feel a sense of dread
• be unable to concentrate or make decisions
• have trouble sleeping
• feel sick, dizzy, sweaty or short of breath
• be shaky or trembly
• get headaches or tummy aches
• avoid situations or put off doing things you are worried about
• have difficulty falling or staying asleep
• experience a noticeably strong, fast or irregular heartbeat
• have pins and needles
• have a dry mouth
• sweat excessively
• repeatedly check things or seek...

Anxiety can be a massive hindrance when it comes to enjoying a party and this time of year can be a struggle, especially if you struggle with social anxiety.

I have never been an outgoing or particularly sociable person and so when I struggled with anxiety myself, it seemed that the simplest option was to avoid social events altogether.

When it comes to Christmas, there are often loads of invitations to parties that can get your heart racing. Office parties, family gatherings and Christmas parties for those you share a hobby with all come around once a year and can make the month of December very stressful indeed.

Here are some tried and tested tips to help make Christmas party season fun, even if you struggle with anxiety.

Arrive on time

This may seem like an odd tip but arriving on time for a party or meal can be very beneficial if you don’t find socialising comfortable.

When you arrive on time you are usually there before most people who prefer to arrive fashionably late...