Anxiety Disorders
Also known as Generalised anxiety disorder, GAD
This article is general health information for the selected condition. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace clinical judgement. If you have questions or need treatment advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
What is anxiety disorders?
Anxiety becomes a disorder when worry is out of proportion to the situation, is hard to control, and interferes with work, study or relationships. It is among the most common mental health conditions and responds well to treatment. Physical symptoms such as a racing heart are genuine and are driven by the body stress response, not imagined.
Causes
- Interaction of genetic vulnerability and life stress
- Differences in brain circuits handling threat and fear
- Chronic stress or trauma exposure
- Some medical conditions such as thyroid disease
- Caffeine, stimulants and certain medicines
Symptoms
- Persistent worry that is difficult to control
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tension, often in the neck and shoulders
- Sleep disturbance
- Palpitations, sweating or shortness of breath
- Avoidance of situations that trigger worry
Risk factors
- Family history of anxiety or depression
- Childhood adversity or trauma
- Chronic physical illness
- Substance or alcohol use
- Female sex, which carries roughly double the diagnosed rate
Diagnosis
- Clinical interview against recognised diagnostic criteria
- Validated screening tools such as the GAD 7 questionnaire
- Blood tests to exclude thyroid disease or anaemia
- Review of medicines, caffeine and substance use
Treatment
- Cognitive behavioural therapy, which has the strongest evidence
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medicines
- Serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors
- Structured exercise and sleep regulation
- Breathing and grounding techniques for acute episodes
- Reducing caffeine, nicotine and alcohol
Self care
- Practise slow breathing with a longer out breath during acute episodes
- Keep a regular sleep and meal schedule
- Exercise regularly, which has a genuine anti anxiety effect
- Cut back caffeine, nicotine and alcohol
- Limit doom scrolling and news checking
- Use grounding techniques rather than avoidance
- Face avoided situations gradually rather than all at once
When to see a doctor
Book an appointment if:
- Worry is persistent and hard to control for weeks
- You are avoiding work, study or social situations
- Panic attacks are recurring
- Sleep is consistently disrupted
- You are using alcohol or drugs to cope
- Physical symptoms are frightening you
Some symptoms need emergency care rather than an appointment. See the warning signs listed above.
Prevention
- Maintain sleep, exercise and social contact as protective routines
- Learn and practise techniques before periods of high stress
- Address alcohol and stimulant use early
- Treat episodes fully rather than stopping treatment at first improvement
- Build gradual exposure rather than long term avoidance
Outlook
Anxiety disorders respond well to treatment. Cognitive behavioural therapy produces lasting benefit for the majority, and medication helps where symptoms are moderate to severe. Relapse can occur, particularly under stress, but skills learned in therapy usually remain effective. Most people return to full functioning at work and home.
Common questions
How is normal worry different from an anxiety disorder?
Everyday worry is proportionate, passes when the situation resolves, and does not stop you functioning. An anxiety disorder is persistent, feels uncontrollable, and interferes with work, sleep or relationships over months.
Can anxiety cause physical symptoms?
Yes. Palpitations, chest tightness, stomach upset, dizziness and breathlessness are common and are produced by the stress response. New or severe chest pain should still be assessed medically rather than assumed to be anxiety.
Is medication required?
Not always. Mild to moderate anxiety often responds to cognitive behavioural therapy alone. Medication is usually considered for moderate to severe symptoms or when therapy alone has not been enough.
References
Important: Dard AI is not a medical device and does not diagnose, treat, or replace clinician judgement. This article is general information only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about diagnosis and treatment, and seek emergency care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.