Overview
An anxiety disorder is worry or fear that has become excessive, persistent and hard to control, interfering with daily life — sometimes with sudden panic attacks that feel like a heart problem. It is one of the most common mental-health conditions and responds very well to talking therapy and, when needed, medication.
Symptoms
- Excessive worry most days, hard to switch off
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Racing heart, chest tightness or shortness of breath
- Trembling, sweating or stomach upset
- Difficulty sleeping
- Poor concentration
- Sudden intense panic attacks with fear of dying
- Avoiding places or situations that trigger fear
Causes & risk factors
- Inherited tendency and brain chemistry
- Chronic stress — finances, insecurity, work pressure
- Traumatic experiences
- Excess caffeine, stimulants or some medications
- Thyroid and other medical conditions mimicking anxiety
Treatment & self-care
Cognitive behavioural therapy with a psychologist teaches practical skills that reliably reduce anxiety; doctors may add medication for moderate to severe cases. Regular exercise, reduced caffeine, breathing exercises and good sleep all lower the baseline. A medical check first rules out thyroid or heart conditions that mimic anxiety.
See a doctor urgently if
- Worry or panic interfering with work, sleep or relationships
- Chest pain — first rule out a heart problem
- Avoiding normal activities out of fear
- Using alcohol or sedatives to cope
- Thoughts of self-harm