Anxiety

Anxiety is something everybody experiences at some time and refers to the physical, mental and behavioural changes we feel in response to a threat. These changes are sometimes referred to as the 'fight or flight' response, because they prepare us to respond to danger. The danger may be in the form of a threat to our physical safety or - perhaps more commonly in modern day life - may be an indirect threat such as being concerned about meeting work or other commitments.

Some anxiety is inevitable in today's society and in many situations it is an appropriate and reasonable response.

Anxiety disorders are different from 'everyday' anxiety in being more intense and persistent, to a degree which interferes with a person's life.

So here are the different forms of anxiety:

• Panic attack - a sudden feeling of panic associated with physical symptoms like: shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, feeling faint, shaking, dry mouth, pounding heart, tingling fingers or feet, sweating, hot or cold flushes, an urge to flee, nausea, blurred vision, difficulty gathering thoughts, fear of dying or losing control.

• Panic Disorder - at least two unexpected panic attacks, followed by at least 1 month of worry about having another panic attack. The panic attacks are not associated with any particular event or situation, but occur for no apparent reason.

• Agoraphobia - anxiety about being in a place where help may not be available or it may be difficult to get away, in the event of another panic attack. Typical situations of concern include crowded places, open spaces, buses, trains, enclosed spaces, travelling alone, or being a long way from home.

• Phobia - repeated, irrational fear of a specific object, activity or situation. The fear is so intense that it drives the person to extremes to avoid the situation. Phobias are more severe and persistent than the normal fears or anxieties which we all have at some time.

• A specific phobia is a fear of one particular thing, such as an animal or insect, fear of flying or fear of heights. Social phobia is a fear of humiliation when being observed by others, such as a fear of blushing in public or a fear of eating in public.

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder - a person experiences obsessions (persistent, unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (being driven to perform a ritual or behaviour) to a degree which seems excessive even to them and causes disruption to their everyday life. For example, a person may wash their hands repeatedly to relieve unreasonable worries about contamination, after contact with others or objects.

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder - excessive general worry, anxiety and apprehension that occurs for more days than not, over a period of at least 6 months, and is very difficult for the person to control. The person may feel restless or irritable, physically tense, easily fatigued, have trouble concentrating and have trouble sleeping.

• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - recurrent feelings of terror, frightening dreams or relived memories which result from a previous traumatic event (such as war, torture, accident or violence). Memories or flashbacks may be triggered by a particular event and are intrusive, interfering with everyday life.

Symptoms of anxiety may begin in response to a number of situations, such as a major problem or a series of stressful life events (like changing jobs or making major decisions). Personality traits may also influence how people respond to anxiety.

Many people who are treated for anxiety disorders tend to be

sensitive,

emotional,

easily worried and nervous,

family history may also play a role.

A person who would like some help in dealing with an anxiety problem should consult their general practitioner, who may refer them to a mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Anxiety disorders may be treated using counselling or medications, often in combination, in the community setting. Most people with anxiety disorders do not require hospitalisation, unless their disorder is severe or is complicated by other circumstances or illness.
For more information about anxiety disorders you might like to visit the following websites:

Panic Anxiety Hub: www.panicattacks.com.au
Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, UNSW: www.crufad.org
Anxiety Network Australia: www.anxietynetwork.com.au
Mental Health First Aid: www.mhfa.com.au/documents/guidelines/8185_MHFA_panic_guidelines.pdf