Unraveling the complexities of anxiety begins with understanding its symptoms. Let's delve into the subtle signs that often go unnoticed, and explore effective strategies for seeking help, fostering a path towards mental wellness.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a general umbrella term that can include a number of different anxiety disorders, including phobias and panic disorders.
- A diagnosis of anxiety is usually made by a GP, based on a patient’s symptoms and how long they’ve had them. Diagnosis criteria include at least six months of excessive worry about everyday issues that is disproportionate to any inherent risk and causes distress or impairment to everyday life.
Panic disorder
If someone regularly has panic attacks apparently out of the blue, without any obvious trigger, they may be diagnosed with panic disorder. It often coexists with agoraphobia, and in some cases, the fear of having a panic attack can itself trigger an attack.
PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event or serious injury
- Symptoms usually begin within three months of the traumatic event, but can last years afterwards
- Like other anxiety disorders, PTSD can severely impair a person’s ability to function in social or family life, sometimes resulting in relationship problems or job instability
OCD
OCD is a group of anxiety disorders characterized by repetitive thoughts or compulsions
- 1 in every 50 people suffer from OCD, and it is common in both men and women
- People with OCD often experience unwelcome thoughts, images, urges, worries, or doubts
- They also tend to engage in repetitive activities to reduce anxiety
Where to find help
Seek help by approaching a GP, who may be able to provide treatment
- Private therapy is another option, although this can be expensive
- Various charities and community organisations run peer support groups, where individuals share their own experiences of anxiety and coping strategies in a supportive environment
- The UK Samaritans 116 123
Phobias
These are fear or anxiety being triggered by a particular situation or object, eg dogs, flying, clowns or injections.
- Simple phobias (e.g., fear of heights or spiders) usually start during childhood, whereas complex (social phobia, agoraphobia) start later in life.
