Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal alarm system. An anxiety disorder means that fear or worry is long-lasting, difficult to control and clearly interferes with life. The symptoms are real and treatable.

• Anxiety can affect thoughts, emotions and behaviour and cause physical reactions: worrying, feeling threatened, avoidance, palpitations, trembling, sweating, breathlessness and abdominal symptoms.
• A panic attack often peaks within minutes and usually subsides. It feels dangerous, but is generally not harmful in itself.
• New severe chest pain, fainting, loss of function on one side or breathlessness needs medical assessment first; do not automatically attribute every physical symptom to anxiety.
• Avoidance gives short-term relief but often keeps anxiety going. Gradual exposure within a treatment plan helps the brain relearn safety.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy is an important treatment. Depending on the type of anxiety, other psychological approaches or medicines may be appropriate.
• SSRI or SNRI medicines take weeks to work and may temporarily increase agitation at first. Never stop suddenly without a tapering plan.
• Because of tolerance, dependence, drowsiness and falls risk, benzodiazepines are usually not a long-term solution.
• Seek help immediately for suicidal plans, psychosis, inability to stay safe or dangerous substance use.