Adults
Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal response to stress, but when it becomes excessive, lasts a long time or interferes with daily life, it may be an anxiety disorder that benefits from professional support. It is highly treatable, and most people see real improvement with the right combination of therapy, and sometimes medication.
Also searched as: worry, panic attacks, nervousness, generalised anxiety.
What the evidence says
301 million
people worldwide were living with an anxiety disorder in 2019
1 in 4
people with an anxiety disorder receive treatment for it
- Anticipating the worst possible outcome
- Racing heart, palpitations or chest tightness
- Racing thoughts or overthinking
- Shortness of breath, dizziness or numbness
- Difficulty focusing or paying attention
- Restlessness and fear of losing control
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can assess.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy to challenge anxious thought patterns
- Mindfulness and relaxation-based techniques
- Psychiatric review and medication where anxiety is severe
- Lifestyle and routine support alongside therapy
- Clinginess and difficulty separating from caregivers
- Stomach aches or unexplained physical complaints
- Avoidance of school or social situations
- Irritability that is hard to soothe
Not sure yet?
A few private questions: Anxiety self-check
Over the last two weeks, how often have you been bothered by the following? There are no right answers — answer as honestly as feels comfortable. Scored on your device only, nothing is stored, and it is not a diagnosis.
The care pathway
What each professional actually does here
Care for this concern is usually shared. Here is how each discipline contributes, so nothing feels like a black box.
A psychologist assesses the root causes of anxiety and builds a personalised plan using cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and relaxation techniques to challenge negative thought patterns and build resilience.
Explore this serviceA psychiatrist evaluates biological and medical factors, and can prescribe anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants when appropriate, working alongside the psychologist for comprehensive care.
Explore this serviceWho you'd work with
The disciplines involved
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself — we match you after a first conversation.
Psychology
Psychology & Therapy
Evidence-informed therapy for adolescents, adults, couples and older adults- held in a space where you are understood as a whole person.
Learn morePsychiatry
Psychiatry
Careful psychiatric assessment and medication support, always coordinated with your therapist and wider care team.
Learn moreQuestions
Anxiety: questions people ask us
Short, honest answers about who helps, what to expect and how care is coordinated.
Anxiety involves excessive worry or fear that exceeds the normal stress response and can interfere with daily life. Stress is usually a temporary reaction to a specific challenge.
If anxiety is significantly interfering with your daily life, relationships or work, or symptoms are persistent or escalating, it is worth speaking to a professional.
Many people find relief through therapy, lifestyle changes and coping strategies alone; others benefit from adding medication. It depends on severity and individual needs.
It varies, but many people notice relief within weeks to months of consistent therapy and, where used, medication.
Yes. Regular exercise, sufficient sleep and stress-reduction habits can meaningfully complement therapy.
Take the next step
Tell us what's happening, we'll suggest where to start
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself- we match you after a first conversation.