Anxiety is a normal feeling that everyone experiences from time to time. However, when anxiety becomes overwhelming or persistent, it may develop into an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive fear or worry, triggered by situations that would not normally cause such a negative reaction, and affect daily life and functioning.
Anxiety disorders can be general, affecting many aspects of life, or specific, such as social anxiety and phobias. Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include persistent worry, restlessness, sleep difficulties, and problems concentrating.
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder which involves panic attacks, sudden and intense episodes that can occur out of the blue, and may include symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, and feelings of impending doom. Panic attacks can often lead sufferers to believe they are suffering a heart attack or other physical health crisis, and can also be experienced as part of other anxiety disorders.
Anxiety disorders are one of the most common categories of mental health disorder: the World Health Organisation estimates that around 1 in 13 people worldwide suffers from anxiety, including over 8 million people in the UK (Champion Health, 2023).
Anxiety can be treated using various approaches, such as therapy, medication, or a combination. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used psychological therapy that has strong evidence for its success in treating anxiety. Medications including anti-anxiety drugs and antidepressants may also be prescribed. Sufferers may also find it helpful to introduce lifestyle changes, such as practising mindfulness and breathing techniques, eating a balanced diet, and introducing regular exercise.
Further information and resources
Recommended books
- “Unwinding Anxiety: Train Your Brain to Heal Your Mind” by Dr Judson Brewer – This book offers a brain-based approach to anxiety, explaining how to identify individual and reduce its impact on daily life.
- “Overcoming Anxiety, 2nd Edition: A self-help guide using cognitive behavioural techniques” by Helen Kennerly – Drawing on the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Kennerly has written a comprehensive manual that explains anxiety and stress, and includes tips and worksheets to help you manage your own.
- “10% Happier 10th Anniversary: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works - A True Story” by Dan Harris – After having a panic attack live on Good Morning America, Harris started on a journey to explore the roots of his own anxiety and overcome it. He shares valuable insights and tips that he learnt along the way.
