Anxiety Disorder

Key takeaways

• Generalised anxiety, panic disorder and social anxiety have overlapping symptoms but different patterns and treatment priorities.
• Thyroid disease, heart-rhythm problems, stimulants, caffeine, withdrawal and some medicines can mimic or worsen anxiety.
• Psychological therapy is a core treatment; when medicine is used, benefit develops over time and adverse effects need review.

The listings below do not determine the diagnosis or safest treatment; symptom pattern, other conditions and current substances matter.

What assessment clarifies

Clinicians ask about triggers, physical symptoms, avoidance, duration and effect on function, as well as depression, trauma, sleep and substance use. Sudden episodes of chest symptoms may still require physical assessment. Screening questionnaires support but do not replace a clinical history.

Treatment options

Cognitive behavioural therapy teaches practical ways to change threat interpretations and avoidance. SSRIs or SNRIs are common longer-term medicine options; they may initially increase restlessness and should not be stopped abruptly. Sedating medicines have narrower roles because of impairment, tolerance and dependence risk.

When to seek urgent care

Get urgent help for thoughts or plans of self-harm, inability to maintain basic safety, severe agitation or confusion, collapse, or new chest pain or neurological symptoms that have not been medically assessed.