Anxiety
We all feel anxious sometimes—it might be about exam results, a job interview or even who will win the final of a sports match. This anxiety is a normal part of life and in fact is necessary to help us avoid danger or perform at our best.
For some people, the feelings of anxiety can be much more extreme. This anxiety is more than feeling stressed—it’s a serious condition that makes day-to-day life difficult.
What is anxiety?
There are a range of issues that affect how we think, feel and behave. Some people often develop anxiety after a stressful life event. It might begin with some feelings of sadness, distress or anxiety. Over time, these symptoms become more intense and overwhelming and can affect friendships, relationships and everyday life.
It is important to get help as early as possible so it doesn’t get to this stage.
Read more about anxiety and depression.
How common is anxiety?
Anxiety is very common. In Australia, one in 25 teenagers (13–17 year olds) experience anxiety in any 12-month period. For those between 18 and 25, the numbers are even higher, at one in 10.
What causes anxiety?
Anxiety is different for everyone, and there is no simple answer for why people develop the condition. For most people there is a combination of reasons.
Some causes of anxiety might be genetics (a history of anxiety in your family), disturbance of brain activity, or a stressful event (like a family break-up, abuse, upcoming exams, ongoing bullying at school, sexual abuse, a death, a relationship break-up, or family conflict).
Signs of anxiety
Anxiety can affect you in the following ways:
- body (pounding heart, chest pain, rapid breathing, dizziness, headaches, sweating, numbness, choking, dry mouth, vomiting, muscle aches)
- mind (unrealistic fear or worry, mind racing or going blank, decreased concentration and memory, indecisiveness, irritability, impatience, anger, confusion, sleep disturbances)
- behaviour (avoidance of situations, obsessive or compulsive behaviour, distress in social situations, increased use of alcohol or other drugs).
Read more about the signs, the causes, types of anxiety, and treatment options.
Take the anxiety and depression checklist.
Where to get support
With the right treatment and support, you can recover from anxiety.
The recovery process from anxiety can be different for everyone and it is all about finding what works best for you. A recovery process does not mean that you have to work it out alone. With the help of friends, family and perhaps a health professional, you will be able to find the support you need.
Support groups, websites and helplines can also be a great help.
- Beyond Blue Support Service
Talk – 1300 22 4636
Chat
Email - Kids Helpline
Talk – 1800 55 1800
Chat
Email - Lifeline
Talk – 13 11 14
Chat