Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorder is an umbrella term that covers a range of mental health problems characterised by excessive worrying, apprehension and fear about future uncertainties either based on real or imagined events, which may affect both physical and psychological health. Some of the specific disorders are listed opposite.

Anxiety can present in several ways and emotions can range from simple nervousness to bouts of terror at different times. Anxiety disorders are classified into several specific conditions, each with its own cause, characteristics and symptoms and each requiring different treatment.

Anxiety disorders can cause both psychological and physical symptoms and is frequently associated with depression, substance misuse, physical health problems and social withdrawal.

Many psychiatric and medical syndromes can mimic or aggravate anxiety disorder (e.g. hyperthyroidism) and might be wrongly diagnosed. A thorough clinical assessment is necessary for the decide the right diagnostic formulation and the decide on the best treatment options.