.png)
Anxiety Disorder
.png)
What is
Anxiety Disorder
?
Anxiety disorders are a common mental health concern, affecting nearly a quarter of Australians at some point in their lives. While a certain level of worry is normal and serves as a natural alert system, persistent and excessive anxiety can disrupt daily life and impact overall well-being. Globally, approximately 10% of people experience long-term anxiety conditions, which can worsen without proper treatment and support. Recognizing and addressing anxiety early is essential to improving quality of life and preventing further complications.
Types of
Anxiety Disorder
Five main categories of anxiety disorders exist:
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
It is characterised by enduringly tense and anxious feelings, often accompanied by physical discomfort. It frequently coexists with depression and other anxiety disorders.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive actions and persistent intrusive thoughts characterise it. Those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) participate in ritualistic behaviour. This condition usually shows symptoms in early childhood or adolescence.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
This results from exposure to a stressful experience and causes uncomfortable memories or flashbacks to reoccur. PTSD affects the person experiencing it directly and everyone in their immediate vicinity.
Panic Disorder
It involves frequent bouts of abrupt, severe anxiety or terror, frequently accompanied by symptoms including palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Social Fear
A severe dread or aversion to social situations characterises it. People who suffer from social anxiety feel insecure, ashamed, and afraid of other people's opinions.
Symptoms of
Anxiety Disorder
Every person experiences a variety of symptoms caused by anxiety. These symptoms are as follow:
Physical Symptoms
- Palpitations
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Digestive problems
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Eating disorders
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
- Tingling
- Dizziness
- Possible sexual dysfunction
Psychological Symptoms
- Restlessness
- Feelings of threat or danger
- Desire to flee or attack
- Insecurity
- Feeling of emptiness
- Fear of losing control
- Uncertainty
- Difficulty making decisions
- Negative thoughts
- Potential for suicidal idealisation in severe cases
Behavioural Symptoms
- Impulsivity
- Motor restlessness
- Difficulty staying still
- Alertness
- Clumsiness
- Changes in body language (e.g. closed postures, clumsy movements)
- Numbness in jaw
- Voice changes
- Excessive doubts
Intellectual or Cognitive Symptoms
- Difficulty with concentration
- Poor memory
- Increased carelessness
- Excessive worry
- Negative expectations
- Distorted thoughts
- Increased doubts and confusion
- Tendency to remember unpleasant things
- Inadequate interpretations
Social Symptoms
- Irritability
- Self-absorption
- Difficulties in starting or carrying a conversation
- Blocking or going blank when asking or answering
- Difficulties in expressing opinions or asserting one’s rights
- Fear of rejection
Why does
Anxiety Disorder
occur?
Anxiety disorders can arise from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. These include:
- Genetics: Family history increases risk.
- Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin or GABA.
- Environment: Trauma, chronic stress, or major life changes.
- Personality: Traits like sensitivity or perfectionism can contribute.
- Medical Issues: Conditions like thyroid problems or certain medications.
These factors interact to influence how anxiety develops and persists, guiding treatment options like therapy or medication.
Effects of
Anxiety Disorder
Diagnosing
Anxiety Disorder
Medical experts must conduct a comprehensive assessment to rule out other curable ailments to ensure an accurate and prompt diagnosis of anxiety disorders. There may be similarities between the symptoms of anxiety and depression, physical ailments, and other mental health issues.
- Examining the patient's past medical records.
- Using standardised tests to evaluate the patient's behaviour, mood, memory, and cognitive abilities.
- Running blood testing to ensure no underlying medical issues.
- Monitoring brain activity with brain imaging scans to identify any anomalies linked to anxiety disorders..
Treatments for
Anxiety Disorder
See our psychiatrist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. After a comprehensive evaluation, Our Psychiatrist can evaluate your ailment and create a customised treatment plan. Thankfully, there are highly successful therapies for anxiety disorders that allow people to take back control and lead happy, satisfying lives.
Mindscape Psychiatry's Approach to
Anxiety Disorder
- Performing evaluations to determine whether anxiety disorders are present.
- Providing accurate diagnoses for a range of anxiety disorders.
- Provide support to patients and their carers or family members efficiently manage the illness.
- Prescribe medication as necessary
- Assist your regular GP in finding a suitable and experienced psychologist for CBT.
