Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural response to stress and threats, but when it becomes overwhelming and affects daily life, it can be a mental health condition that requires treatment.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, fear, or unease that can be mild or severe. It's a common response to stress, but when anxiety becomes persistent and affects daily life, it can be a disorder.

Types of anxiety

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

• Constant worry and anxiety
• Difficulty controlling worry
• Affects daily life
• Lasts at least 6 months

Panic disorder:

• Sudden intense anxiety attacks
• Physical symptoms like heart palpitations
• Fear of dying or losing control
• Can cause avoidance behavior

Social anxiety:

• Fear of social situations
• Avoids social activities
• Fear of being judged
• Affects relationships and work

Symptoms of anxiety

Psychological symptoms:

• Constant worry and fear
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fear of losing control
• Feeling that something bad will happen

Physical symptoms:

• Heart palpitations or rapid pulse
• Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
• Cold sweats
• Trembling or shaking
• Nausea or stomach problems
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Sleep problems

Causes of anxiety

Biological factors:

• Genetic predisposition
• Chemical imbalances in the brain
• Hormonal changes
• Medical conditions

Psychological factors:

• Previous traumatic experiences
• Stressful life events
• Perfectionism
• Negative thought patterns
• Low self-esteem

Environmental factors:

• Work or school stress
• Financial problems
• Relationships
• Major life changes
• Social pressures

Diagnosis

Assessment includes:

• Medical history
• Psychological evaluation
• Symptom checklist
• Ruling out medical causes
• Assessment of functional level

Treatment of anxiety

Psychological treatment:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Exposure therapy
• Mindfulness-based therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Group therapy

Medical treatment:

• Antidepressants (SSRI, SNRI)
• Anxiolytics (short-term treatment)
• Beta-blockers (for physical symptoms)
• Buspirone (for generalized anxiety)

Lifestyle changes:

• Regular exercise
• Balanced diet
• Adequate sleep
• Stress management
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Relaxation techniques

Self-help for anxiety

Breathing techniques:

• Deep breathing
• 4-7-8 breathing technique
• Diaphragmatic breathing

Relaxation techniques:

• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Meditation
• Yoga or tai chi
• Guided imagery

Thought techniques:

• Challenging negative thoughts
• Mindfulness exercises
• Journaling
• Positive affirmations

When should I seek help?

Seek help if you experience:

• Anxiety that affects daily life
• Physical symptoms without medical cause
• Avoiding important activities
• Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
• Anxiety that lasts several weeks

How Min Hälsa can help

We can help you with:

• Assessment of anxiety problems
• Referral to psychologist or psychiatrist
• Advice on stress management
• Support for lifestyle changes
• Follow-up of treatment
• Crisis support for acute anxiety