Anxiety Explained: Symptoms, Treatments & Support in Australia

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. In Australia, it is estimated that one in four Australians will experience anxiety at some point in their lives, making it a key public health concern. This article explores the prevalence, symptoms, available treatments, and where to seek help for anxiety in Australia.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural and often helpful human emotion — it’s your brain’s way of responding to stress or perceived danger. But when anxiety becomes persistent, excessive, and starts to interfere with daily life, it may be classified as an anxiety disorder.

🧠 In simple terms: Anxiety is the feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear about something uncertain or potentially threatening — even if the danger isn’t real or is out of proportion.

⚠️ When does anxiety become a problem? It’s considered a mental health condition when:

• The anxiety is intense or long-lasting
• It happens frequently, not just in stressful situations
• It interferes with your life — affecting your work, relationships, or sleep
• You experience physical symptoms like a racing heart, chest tightness, or stomach pain

Prevalence of Anxiety in Australia

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health issue in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), approximately 14% of Australians aged 16-85 experience an anxiety disorder in any given year. Women are particularly affected, with anxiety disorders being almost twice as common in women compared to men. The most common types of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.

Anxiety can develop at any age but often begins in childhood or adolescence, and it may persist throughout adulthood. The COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to an increase in anxiety, with many Australians reporting heightened stress and uncertainty.

Common Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety manifests in both physical and psychological symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Constant worry or feeling on edge, even when there is no apparent reason
• Restlessness or feeling “keyed up” or “on edge”
• Fatigue, as anxiety can drain mental and physical energy
• Muscle tension and headaches
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling that the mind “goes blank”
• Sleep disturbances, such as trouble falling or staying asleep
• Panic attacks, characterized by sudden, intense feelings of fear or discomfort, often accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, or shortness of breath

These symptoms can significantly impair day-to-day functioning, making work, school, and relationships more difficult.

Treatments for Anxiety

Fortunately, anxiety is treatable, and there are several effective treatment options available. Treatments may involve psychological therapy, medication, lifestyle changes or a combination of these options.

1. Psychological Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a highly effective form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, and replace them with more balanced, realistic thinking.
• Exposure Therapy: A form of CBT that helps people gradually confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations in a safe and controlled manner.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): This approach combines mindfulness meditation and yoga to help reduce anxiety and stress.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages acceptance of anxious thoughts and commitment to values-based living, promoting psychological flexibility.
• Schema Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy: Used in more complex cases, especially when anxiety is linked to early life experiences or personality traits.
• Play Therapy / Family-Based CBT: Particularly effective for children and adolescents.

2. Medication

For some individuals, medication may be necessary to manage anxiety symptoms, especially if the anxiety is severe or persistent. Common medications include:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which are commonly used as antidepressants but are also effective for anxiety.
• Benzodiazepines, which are prescribed for short-term use due to their potential for dependence.

3. Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help Strategies

In addition to professional treatment, lifestyle changes such as regular physical exercise, practicing relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or meditation), and maintaining a balanced diet can help manage anxiety. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and prioritizing sufficient sleep are also crucial.

Where to Seek Help in Australia

If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety, it’s important to seek help early. Here are some options for support in Australia:

1. GP (General Practitioner): Your first point of contact should often be a GP. They can provide a diagnosis, recommend treatment, and refer you to a mental health specialist if necessary.
2. Psychologists and Psychiatrists: Many Australians seek treatment from a psychologist or psychiatrist who specialises in anxiety disorders. Psychologists can provide therapy (like CBT), while psychiatrists can prescribe medications and provide more specialized treatment.
3. Lifeline: A 24/7 crisis support service. If you’re in immediate distress, you can call 13 11 14 for confidential support.
4. Beyond Blue: Offers free support services for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Visit their website at www.beyondblue.org.au or call 1300 22 4636.
5. Headspace: Headspace provides mental health services for young people aged 12-25. They offer counselling, therapy, and a variety of online resources. Visit www.headspace.org.au for more information.
6. The Black Dog Institute: Offers resources and support for managing anxiety and other mental health conditions. Visit www.blackdoginstitute.org.au.
7. MindSpot: An online service that offers free courses for managing anxiety. Visit www.mindspot.org.au for details.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a widespread mental health condition that affects millions of Australians, but help is available. If you’re experiencing anxiety, whether mild or severe, don’t hesitate to seek support. With the right treatment, including therapy, medication, and/or lifestyle changes, individuals can successfully manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.

References:

• Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2020). National Health Survey: First Results, 2017–18. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au
• Beyond Blue. (2021). Anxiety. Retrieved from https://www.beyondblue.org.au
• Black Dog Institute. (2021). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
• Lifeline. (2021). Crisis Support. Retrieved from https://www.lifeline.org.au