Feeling worried before an important meeting, nervous about a major life event or stressed during a difficult period is a normal part of being human. Anxiety is a natural response that helps us recognise and respond to challenges, uncertainty and potential threats.
For some people, however, anxiety can become more persistent and difficult to manage. It may begin to affect daily life, relationships, work, study, sleep and overall wellbeing.
Understanding anxiety and recognising when additional support may be beneficial can be an important first step towards recovery.
Anxiety is the body’s natural response to stress or perceived danger. It can trigger physical, emotional and behavioural responses designed to help us stay alert and safe.
While occasional anxiety is common, ongoing anxiety can become exhausting. Some people describe feeling constantly on edge, unable to switch off their thoughts or overwhelmed by worries that seem difficult to control.
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in Australia and can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.
Anxiety can affect people in different ways. Symptoms may vary in intensity and frequency.
There is rarely a single cause of anxiety. A range of factors may contribute, including:
Understanding the factors contributing to anxiety can help guide treatment and support planning.
Many people try to manage anxiety on their own for extended periods before seeking help.
It may be worth speaking with a healthcare professional if anxiety is:
Seeking support early can help people better understand what they are experiencing and explore appropriate treatment options.
Effective treatment looks different for everyone.
Depending on an individual’s circumstances, support may include:
Treatment plans are typically tailored to an individual’s needs, goals and circumstances.
If someone you care about is experiencing anxiety, it can sometimes be difficult to know how to help.
Helpful approaches may include:
While family and friends play an important role, professional support may also be beneficial when anxiety is significantly affecting a person’s wellbeing.
Anxiety can feel different for everyone. Common experiences include persistent worry, racing thoughts, feeling on edge, difficulty relaxing, physical tension, sleep disturbance and feeling overwhelmed by everyday situations.
Some periods of anxiety may improve as circumstances change. However, if anxiety is persistent, worsening or affecting daily life, professional support may help identify contributing factors and provide effective treatment strategies.
Occasional anxiety is a normal human response to stress. Anxiety may become a mental health condition when symptoms are ongoing, difficult to manage and begin affecting a person’s ability to function in daily life.
Treatment options may include psychological therapies, psychiatric assessment, medication, structured programs, lifestyle strategies and other supports tailored to an individual’s needs.
Avive Health provides evidence-based mental health treatment and support for people experiencing anxiety and related mental health concerns.
Services may include:
If you would like to learn more about available treatment options, contact our team.
P: 1800 284 830
Brisbane | Mornington Peninsula | Telehealth Australia-wide
Individual experiences and treatment needs vary. This article is intended as general information only and should not replace professional medical advice.