Anxiety

Not all anxiety is a disorder. Everyone experiences anxiety and fear at times, and these are normal human emotions that helps us to deal with danger. Anxiety only becomes a disorder when there appears to be no obvious or logical reason for a person to feel excessively and irrationally anxious or worried, and that behaviour becomes ongoing and distressing that interferes with their daily lives.

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health problems. They include generalised anxiety disorders, social phobias, specific phobias (agoraphobia and claustrophobia), and panic disorders. Depression is often related to anxiety disorders.

Other symptoms of an anxiety disorder may include panic or anxiety attacks, or a fear of these attacks, physical anxiety reactions (trembling, sweating, faintness, rapid heartbeat, difficulties breathing or nausea), and avoidance behaviour (a person may go to extreme lengths to avoid a situation that they think could bring on anxiety or panic).

Anxiety disorders can be successfully treated. Untreated anxiety disorders can have serious effects on a person’s life and relationships. Consult your doctor if you need further advice.

Speak with your doctor if you are eligible for the government supported Screen for Life (SFL) or Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP).