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Anxiety: causes, symptoms, and how we can help

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What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a mental state characterised by feelings of nervousness, worry, or fear. It’s a natural response to stressful, challenging, or unfamiliar situations—something everyone experiences from time to time.

For example, it’s normal to feel anxious about an important presentation, exam results, or a medical test. In these cases, anxiety is typically short-lived and resolves once the situation has passed. However, for some, anxiety can persist and significantly impact daily life, indicating an anxiety disorder.

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When does anxiety become a mental health condition?

You may have an anxiety disorder if:

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Your feelings of anxiety are intense, long-lasting, or hard to control.

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You feel your anxious reactions are disproportionate to the situation.

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Anxiety disrupts your work, social life, or daily routine.

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You regularly experience the physical and psychological symptoms listed below.

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Common Symptoms of Anxiety

Physical Symptoms

  • Racing heart or tight chest.
  • Breathing faster than usual.
  • Trouble concentrating.
  • Feeling restless or unable to relax.
  • Light-headedness or dizziness.
  • Pins and needles.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Feeling hot or sweaty.
  • Headaches, muscle aches, or nausea.
  • Increased trips to the toilet.
  • Trouble sleeping or grinding teeth.

Psychological Symptoms

  • Feeling nervous, tense, or on edge.
  • Struggling to control feelings of worry.
  • Worrying about a range of issues.
  • Dread or fear of the worst happening.
  • Feeling detached or that things aren’t real.
  • Irritability or snapping at others.
  • Seeking reassurance or avoiding stressful situations.
  • Increased smoking, drinking, or other coping mechanisms.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, speaking to a medical professional can provide clarity, guidance, and relief.

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety is the body’s “fight or flight” response to a perceived threat. While this response helps in truly dangerous situations, in modern life it often kicks in unnecessarily.

For anxiety disorders, the causes are more complex. Common contributing factors include:

1. Traumatic Experiences
  • Difficult childhoods or adverse life events.
  • Emotional or physical abuse.
  • Losing a parent.
  • Experiencing bullying or neglect.

2. Current Life Stress

Anxiety can result from pressure in various aspects of your life, such as:

  • Financial struggles (e.g., paying bills or rent).
  • Challenges at work, school, or university.
  • Relationship problems.
  • Health concerns or caring for an ill loved one.
  • Social media comparisons, which can worsen anxiety.

3. Other Health Issues

Anxiety can stem from or be worsened by:

Understanding your anxiety’s root cause can help you manage and reduce symptoms.

Anxiety at University

University life is exciting but can also be overwhelming. Exams, essays, presentations, and being away from home can all contribute to anxiety.

  • Many universities offer counselling and pastoral care to support mental health.
  • Reach out to your tutors or student services for guidance.

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Anxiety at Work

Workplace anxiety is very common and might stem from:

  • Performance pressures, new roles, or promotions.
  • Difficult relationships with colleagues or long hours.
  • Job insecurity or feeling overwhelmed.

If anxiety is impacting your ability to work, you can:

  • Discuss concerns with your manager or HR department.
  • Explore reasonable adjustments under workplace disability legislation.

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How is Anxiety Diagnosed?

To diagnose anxiety, a doctor or Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) will assess your symptoms and medical history. Blood tests may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options

  1. Therapy
  1. Medication
  • Beta-Blockers: Help manage physical symptoms like rapid heartbeats.
  • Antidepressants (SSRIs): Improve mood and reduce anxiety in some cases.

At Doctor Care Anywhere, we offer:

  • Video or phone appointments to discuss your symptoms confidentially.
  • Referrals to therapy such as CBT if you have private health insurance.
  • Guided referrals via our partner HelloSelf
  • Prescriptions for beta-blockers, where appropriate.

How Doctor Care Anywhere Can Help

Managing anxiety is easier with the right support. Our clinicians are here to:

  • Help you understand your symptoms.
  • Provide a diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
  • Offer guidance on accessing therapy and NHS services if required.

We’ll follow up with you to ensure your treatment is working and adjust as needed.

Book an appointment today and take the first step towards feeling better.

Extra Tools for Your Wellbeing

Our MyHealth wellbeing tool offers tips and resources to help you manage anxiety and improve your mental health.