Anxiety disorders
Everyone feels worried sometimes, but in anxiety disorders the fear or worry is strong, lasts a long time and makes daily life hard. They include constant worry, panic attacks and strong fears of certain places or situations. Anxiety often causes body symptoms such as a fast heartbeat or stomach upset. It is common and can be treated with talking therapy, relaxation skills and sometimes medicine.
Symptoms
- Constant worry that is hard to control
- Feeling restless, tense or on edge
- Fast heartbeat, sweating, shaking or shortness of breath
- Sudden attacks of intense fear (panic attacks)
- Trouble sleeping and tiredness
- Stomach upset, headache or muscle tension
- Avoiding places or situations because of fear
Causes
- Stressful or frightening life events, including war and violence
- Long-term stress at home, work or school
- Family history of anxiety
- Other health problems such as an overactive thyroid
- Too much tea, coffee or energy drinks
- Alcohol, drug use or stopping them suddenly
Prevention
- Practise slow breathing and relaxation every day
- Keep regular sleep and be physically active
- Cut down on strong tea, coffee and energy drinks
- Talk about your worries with family, friends or a counsellor
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Get help early if worry starts to control your life
Treatment
- Talking therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy with a psychologist
- Learning breathing and relaxation techniques
- Treating any physical cause found by a doctor
- Medicine prescribed by a doctor for severe or long-lasting anxiety
- Sleeping pills and tranquillisers can cause dependence and are only for short use under a doctor
- Do not start these medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Can a panic attack damage my heart?
A panic attack feels frightening but does not damage a healthy heart and usually passes within 10 to 30 minutes. If you have chest pain for the first time, or you have heart disease, get checked by a doctor.
What can I do during an attack of strong anxiety?
Sit down, breathe in slowly through the nose for 4 seconds and out through the mouth for 6 seconds, and repeat for a few minutes. Remind yourself that the feeling will pass.