Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger which helps us to stay alert and focused, motivates us into action, or assists us to cope with challenging situations. However, for some people anxiety can become overwhelming and persistent. Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterised by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness. 

Unlike healthy anxiety, which is temporary and situation-specific, anxiety disorders involve intense, prolonged, and often irrational fears and anxieties. These disorders can significantly impact a person’s ability to function in daily life. 

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, anxiety is the most common group of mental disorders. In 2020 - 2022 more than one in six Australians (17.2% or 3.4million people) aged 16 - 85 years had an anxiety disorder in the previous 12 months. 


Types of anxiety disorders

There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own unique features. 

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD): Characterised by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life including work, health, relationships, and other everyday situations. People with generalised anxiety disorder often expect the worst, even when there is limited reason to think so. This concern is often disproportionate to the actual situation and can be difficult to control, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.  across a variety of topics 

Generalised anxiety disorder is more common in women with nearly 50% of people experiencing their first symptoms before the age of 31. Approximately 2.7% of Australians are affected by generalised anxiety disorder in a given year. 

Panic disorder: A panic disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks occur frequently and are accompanied by persistent concern about having another attack or changes in behaviour to avoid situations that might trigger one. 

Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that reach their peak within minutes and cause severe physical reactions. Panic attacks can happen without warning and are often mistaken for a heart attack due to its intense physical symptoms. 

Phobias: Phobias are characterised by an intense, irrational fear of specific objects, situations, or activities that pose little to no actual danger. These fears can lead to avoidance behaviours and cause significant distress, impacting one’s ability to function normally within daily life. 

Phobias can broadly be categorised into three primary types.

  • Specific phobias: Involves fear of a particular object or situations such as heights, flying, spiders, or enclosed spaces. 
  • Social phobia (social anxiety disorder): Fear of social situations where one might be judged, embarrassed, or humiliated. 
  • Agoraphobia: Fear of situations where escape may be difficult or help might not be available, such as being in crowded places or outside of the home alone. 

About 11.11% Australians have experienced a specific phobia at some point in their lives. Phobias can affect individuals of all ages, and are more common in women than men. 

Separation anxiety disorder (SAD): Commonly associated with children, separation anxiety disorder is characterised by excessive fear or anxiety about being separated from home or attachment figures. About 4.7% of children and adolescents aged 4 - 17 years have experienced separation anxiety disorder, and it also affects approximately 1 - 2% of the adult Australian population. 

Separation anxiety is a normal part of development in very young children. However, when the anxiety is excessive and causes significant distress or problems functioning it may be considered separation anxiety disorder. 

In adults it often manifests as an intense fear of losing or being apart from loved ones. Separation anxiety disorder can lead to impairment in social, academic, and occupational functioning. 

Causes and symptoms of anxiety disorders

There are a range of symptoms associated with anxiety disorders that can significantly impact daily life. Common symptoms include an excessive fear or worry that is difficult to control. Individuals may also experience physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath. 

In severe cases avoidance behaviours may present. This is where an individual goes to great lengths to avoid situations that trigger their anxiety, this behaviour can impact their ability to maintain relationships and participate in regular daily activities. 

Common symptoms include: 

  • Excessive worry or fear
  • Restlessness or feeling on edge
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability
  • Muscle tension
  • Sleep disturbances - including trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Avoidance of situations

The causes of anxiety disorders are multifaceted and complex. It is thought that a combination of factors play a role including: 

  • Genetics: Research suggests a genetic predisposition may play a role in the onset of these conditions. 
  • Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), are associated with anxiety disorders. 
  • Environment: Traumatic or stressful life events, such as death, financial difficulties, divorce, or violence.  
  • Medical conditions: Anxiety can be a side effect of some medications or a symptom of withdrawal from other substances. Certain medical conditions may also cause anxiety or exacerbate existing anxiety disorders. 
  • Developmental: Early life experiences may contribute to the development of anxiety by affecting both brain development and stress-response systems. 
  • Social and cultural: Stigmatisation and discrimination related to one’s identity, background, or personal characteristics can increase the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. 

Treatment of anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders are treatable, with many people finding relief through a combination of therapies including:

  • Medication: Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers can help with managing symptoms. 
  • Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. 
  • Lifestyle management: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet can aid in reducing symptoms.
  • Support networks: Connecting with others who are living with similar experiences can provide support and comfort. 

Understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial for developing effective treatment and management strategies. It is possible to manage anxiety disorders and improve quality of life. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, help is available. Early intervention can prevent anxiety disorders from worsening. Take the first step towards better mental health.

Emergency Services:

If you or a loved one requires immediate assistance, call emergency services (000)

Hotlines:

Hospitalisation:

Inpatient care may be required for individuals experiencing severe symptoms.