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 an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours a few days ago, taking the total omicron cases t more than 25,000..

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

If you or someone who know is struggling, please contact us. We are open until 24 December 2021 and will be back on 10 January 2022.

Stay well and stay safe.