Anxiety Disorders are conditions in which fear, worry, or nervousness becomes excessive,
uncontrollable, and interferes with daily life. While occasional anxiety is normal—such as
before an exam, interview, or important event—anxiety disorders cause distress that is
disproportionate to the situation and persists over time.

Individuals with anxiety disorders may:

•  Constantly worry about everyday situations
•  Feel tense, restless, or on edge
•  Experience rapid heartbeat, sweating, or breathlessness
•  Avoid situations due to fear or embarrassment
•  Struggle with concentration and sleep

These conditions are common, treatable, and manageable with professional support.

•  Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves chronic, excessive anxiety and worry occurring more
days than not for at least six months. The anxiety is difficult to control and is associated with
symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and
impaired concentration. It leads to significant distress or impairment in functioning.

Common Signs:

•  Persistent and excessive worry
•  Overthinking and difficulty relaxing
•  Restlessness and irritability
•  Difficulty concentrating
•  Muscle tension and fatigue
•  Sleep disturbances
•  Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)

Social Anxiety Disorder is marked by a persistent fear of social or performance situations
involving possible scrutiny. Individuals experience intense anxiety and avoidance,
recognising that their fear is excessive, yet finding it difficult to control. Symptoms must
persist for at least six months and cause significant impairment.

Common Signs:

•  Fear of public speaking or interacting with others
•  Avoidance of social gatherings
•  Excessive self-consciousness
•  Fear of criticism or humiliation
•  Blushing, sweating, trembling, or nausea in social settings
•  Difficulty initiating conversations
•  Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder is characterised by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks followed by
persistent concern about additional attacks or their consequences. This often leads to
maladaptive behavioural changes, such as avoidance. The condition causes significant
distress and functional impairment.

Common Signs of a Panic Attack:

•  Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
•  Chest pain or discomfort
•  Shortness of breath
•  Dizziness or lightheadedness
•  Sweating and trembling
•  Choking sensation
•  Fear of losing control or dying
•  Tingling sensations or chills

Many individuals begin to avoid places or situations where panic attacks have occurred,
further affecting daily life.

•  Specific Phobia

Specific Phobias involve excessive and persistent fear triggered by a specific stimulus,
leading to immediate anxiety and active avoidance. The fear is disproportionate to the actual
danger and interferes with daily functioning.

Common Examples:

•  Fear of heights (Acrophobia)
•  Fear of flying (Aviophobia)
•  Fear of spiders (Arachnophobia)
•  Fear of injections (Trypanophobia)

Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders
Emotional Symptoms

•  Excessive worry and fear
•  Feelings of dread or impending doom
•  Irritability and nervousness

Cognitive Symptoms

•  Racing thoughts
•  Difficulty concentrating
•  Overthinking and catastrophic thinking

Physical Symptoms

•  Rapid heartbeat and sweating
•  Trembling and muscle tension
•  Shortness of breath
•  Headaches, dizziness, or stomach discomfort
•  Fatigue and sleep disturbances

Behavioural Symptoms

•  Avoidance of feared situations
•  Seeking constant reassurance
•  Social withdrawal
•  Reduced productivity

When to Seek Professional Help
Consult a mental health professional if:

•  Anxiety persists for weeks or months.
•  It interferes with work, studies, or relationships.
•  You avoid situations due to fear.
•  Physical symptoms occur without medical explanation.
•  You experience panic attacks.
•  Sleep and daily functioning are affected.

Early intervention leads to better recovery and improved quality of life