How Caroline Goldsmith Helps You Tackle the Root Causes of Your Anxiety
How Caroline Goldsmith Helps You Tackle the Root Causes of Your Anxiety
Blog Article
Feeling anxious before exams or during big life changes is completely normal. But when anxiety becomes overwhelming or leads to sudden panic attacks, it can interfere with your daily life. Caroline Goldsmith, a leading psychologist at ATC Ireland Psychology, shares expert advice to help you understand and manage these intense emotions in a healthy way.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is your body’s natural reaction to stress. It's like your brain’s way of warning you about danger or challenges. You might feel:
- Nervous or restless
- A racing heart
- Trouble focusing
- Sweaty hands
- Tight chest
For most people, anxiety comes and goes. But if it sticks around and gets worse, it could be part of an anxiety disorder.
What is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden wave of fear that hits hard. It usually peaks within 10 minutes and includes symptoms like:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness
- Shaking
- Feeling like you're "losing control"
Panic attacks can feel terrifying, but they're not dangerous. Caroline Goldsmith explains that understanding what’s happening during an attack is the first step to managing it.
Caroline Goldsmith’s Approach to Tackling Teen Anxiety
As a psychologist with decades of experience, Caroline Goldsmith focuses on helping young people feel safe, strong, and supported. Her blueprint for overcoming anxiety and panic attacks includes simple, practical tools anyone can use.
1. Recognise the Signs Early
Caroline teaches teens to identify early signs of anxiety—like tension in the body, trouble sleeping, or negative thoughts—so they can act before it gets worse.
Real-life example: Jack, 18, from Galway noticed he would clench his jaw before exams. With help, he learned to pause and use breathing techniques before his anxiety built up.
2. Use Grounding Techniques
When anxiety hits, grounding helps bring you back to the present moment. Try:
- 5-4-3-2-1 Method: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste.
- Deep breathing: Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4, breathe out for 4. Repeat slowly.
Caroline recommends practicing these daily, not just during panic attacks, so they become second nature.
3. Change Your Thinking Patterns
Caroline Goldsmith uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help teens replace anxious thoughts with more helpful ones.
Example Thought Swap:
- “I’m going to mess up my presentation.”
➡ “I’ve practiced and I know what I’m talking about.”
CBT is backed by science and is one of the most effective ways to manage anxiety (source).
4. Get Moving
Exercise helps reduce anxiety by lowering stress hormones and boosting mood. You don’t need to be an athlete—walk, dance, cycle, or just stretch. Caroline recommends 20–30 minutes of movement most days.
5. Talk About It
You’re not alone. Talking to someone you trust—like a parent, teacher, or counsellor—can ease anxiety and help you feel supported.
ATC Ireland Psychology offers confidential support with experienced professionals like Caroline Goldsmith who understand teen challenges.
Q&A: Teen Anxiety in Ireland
Why are so many teens feeling anxious today?
Life has changed fast. From academic pressure to social media, young people face a lot. The HSE reports that 1 in 4 young people in Ireland experience a mental health issue at some point (source).
Are panic attacks dangerous?
They feel scary, but panic attacks are not harmful. Caroline Goldsmith explains that with the right strategies, most teens can learn to manage or prevent them.
Should I see a psychologist?
If anxiety or panic attacks are affecting your school, relationships, or sleep, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional. Psychologists like Caroline Goldsmith are trained to help you understand and manage your mental health.
How Caroline Goldsmith Builds Resilience in Teens
At ATC Ireland Psychology, Caroline Goldsmith doesn’t just treat anxiety—she helps teens build resilience. That means learning to bounce back after tough times and developing skills to handle stress long-term.
Her Resilience Toolkit Includes:
- Mindfulness and relaxation practices
- Healthy sleep routines
- Journaling and creative expression
- Time management and organisation strategies
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
If you’re struggling with anxiety or panic attacks, remember—help is available, and healing is possible. Caroline Goldsmith’s work with teens across Ireland shows that with the right tools, you can feel confident, calm, and in control of your life again.
For personalised support, contact ATC Ireland Psychology or book a consultation with Caroline Goldsmith today.
Contact Information:
Caroline’s practice is easily reachable through her website, email, or phone, ensuring clients have multiple ways to Connect and Resources.