Do you feel the ache of anxiety or the pinch of panic? Bundle your worries and take them to Queensland University of Technology, where people from all walks of life are learning how to unpack and leave behind their mind baggage.
New techniques for the effective treatment of anxiety are being developed by QUT, and anxious people are needed to help continue the important work, Dr Esben Strodl, director of the QUT Psychology Clinic, said.
"One of the biggest problems faced by anxiety sufferers attempting therapy is sticking to it, especially since many sufferers already believe that they cannot cope," Dr Strodl said.
"Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is often seen as the gold standard for treating anxiety, yet almost a third of those who complete therapy do not experience a significant improvement in their symptoms.
"This study investigates whether three extra sessions of specialised counselling can further improve the effectiveness of CBT for treating anxiety disorders."
Dr Strodl said CBT, which is acknowledged by Medicare, is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety and depression.
"CBT helps patients to unravel the deep seated core beliefs they have about themselves and the world, like believing they are not worthwhile or good enough, and learn how to challenge the thoughts that race through their heads," he said.
"The key is that thinking influences feelings, and feelings influence behaviour. "
Susan was a CBT group participant at QUT earlier this year. She has suffered anxiety for the past 20 years at varying levels of severity.
Susan described her anxiety of travelling on public transport as "the most traumatic, uncomfortable and painful experience" she had ever had.
"At one stage it took me two and a half hours to get to work on what should have been a 20 minute train trip," she said.
"On the train, sometimes I would feel so vulnerable and my senses would go wild. I couldn't see or hear properly and I found it hard to breathe. I would have to get off the train every couple of stations and wait for the next one."
Susan said the CBT group was nurturing and comforting, and helped her to get back on track.
Dr Strodl said that group therapy aids participants by creating a community with a common cause.
"Fighting something alone, even with a psychologist's help, is very hard," he said.
"But the encouragement from others in a similar position seems to provide an inspiration beyond what a psychologist can offer.
"Each success in the group buoys the others and testifies to the effectiveness of the interventions. This experiential learning is such a powerful tool."
Free CBT sessions are open to anyone aged 18 to 65. Participants must be able to attend sessions at QUT's Carseldine campus.
To participate in the study, please phone 07 3138 4635.
Media contact: Rachael Wilson, QUT media officer, 07 3138 1150 or rachael.wilson@qut.edu.au.
