Anxiety is a normal response to threat or uncertainty. An anxiety disorder is present when fear or worry becomes excessive, persists and interferes with daily life. Common forms include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and specific phobias.
Possible symptoms
- Persistent worry, fear or a sense that something bad will happen
- Restlessness, irritability or difficulty relaxing
- Poor concentration and disturbed sleep
- Fast heartbeat, sweating, shaking or dizziness
- Shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea or stomach discomfort
- Avoiding places, people or activities because of fear
A panic attack can cause intense physical symptoms, but similar symptoms can also come from heart, lung, thyroid or other medical conditions. New or severe symptoms need appropriate assessment.
When to seek support
Contact a healthcare professional when anxiety is persistent, difficult to control, disrupting work, education, sleep or relationships, or leading to increasing avoidance, alcohol use or other harmful coping. A clinician can assess anxiety and check for related physical or mental health conditions.
Treatment
Effective treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), other evidence-based psychotherapies, gradual exposure approaches and medication. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used for some anxiety disorders. Treatment should reflect the type of anxiety, severity, other conditions and personal preferences.
Helpful daily strategies
- Keep regular sleep, meals and physical activity where possible.
- Reduce caffeine if it worsens palpitations or anxiety.
- Practice slow breathing or grounding during periods of intense fear.
- Break avoided tasks into gradual, manageable steps.
- Stay connected with trusted people rather than withdrawing.
Self-help can support recovery but does not replace professional care when symptoms are severe or persistent.
When to seek urgent help
Contact local emergency services for severe chest pain, major breathing difficulty, collapse or other symptoms that could represent a medical emergency. Seek immediate mental health help if you may harm yourself or someone else, cannot keep yourself safe, or are experiencing a severe crisis.
This information is general and does not replace individual mental health or medical assessment or treatment.
Sources and further reading
- National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders
- National Institute of Mental Health: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- National Institute of Mental Health: Psychotherapies
Last reviewed: 28 September 2026.