Anxiety is not simply worrying. Having feelings of fear and worry sometimes, is normal. Anxiety occurs when these feelings stay focused on specific issues and persist for an extended period of time. Anxiety also affects one's ability to function normally.

• What are the symptoms of anxiety?
• What can I do to manage anxiety?
• Where can I go for help?
• What services are provided by the Health Department for children and youth in Halton who may be dealing with anxiety, etc.?
• Related Links

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

A person with anxiety may experience:

• Headaches, nausea, diarrhoea
• Excessive worry
• Muscle tension, shortness of breath
• Decreased concentration
• Fatigue, loss of energy
• Change in appetite
• Feeling light-headed, dizzy, or sweaty
• Decreased or restless sleep

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What can I do to manage anxiety?

• Eat healthy
• Make physical activity  and  active living a part of your day
• Talk to a friend, family member, counsellor, family doctor or faith leader
• Develop a strong support system
• Use relaxation techniques such as yoga and deep breathing
• Practice good sleep habits to ensure you are getting enough sleep
• Ask for help
• Avoid using drugs, alcohol or caffeine to cope

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Where can I go for help?

• Family Physician
• Friends
• School Counsellor
• School Nurse
• Clergy/ Faith Leader
• Family members
• COAST – Crisis Outreach and Support Team Halton (for people age 16 or older)
  1-877-825-9011
• ROCK - Reach Out Centre For Kids  (For children up to 18 years of age)
  24 hour Crisis line - 905 878-9785

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What services are provided by the Health Department for children and youth in Halton who may be dealing with anxiety, etc.?

• The Health Department has a team of Mental Health Liaison Nurses (MHLN) who work in Halton secondary schools.
• We also have Mental Health Liaison Nurse Juniors (MHLNj) who work in Halton elementary schools with grades 6 through 8.
• The MHLN and MHLNj provide early identification for youth who present with mental health problems and/or psychiatric symptoms.
• Assessment, Counselling, Referral and Consultation services  are provided to children, youth, parents and caregivers.
• Youth Mental Health Support in Schools

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Related Links

• Phobia and Panic Disorder  
  Canadian Mental Health Association 
• Anxiety and Panic – Gaining Control Over How You Are Feeling  
  The College of Family Physicians of Canada
• Major Anxiety Disorders  
  Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba 
• Anxiety Disorders Clinic  
  McMaster University Medical Centre

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