Anxiety is a normal human response, but it can become difficult to manage when it is persistent, intense or begins to limit daily life.
Healthcare professionals use different diagnostic terms because anxiety can appear in distinct ways and may require different forms of support. Only an appropriately qualified professional should diagnose an anxiety disorder.
Generalised anxiety
Generalised anxiety disorder can involve ongoing worry about several areas of life, often accompanied by tension, restlessness, poor sleep or difficulty concentrating.
Occasional worry does not necessarily mean someone has a disorder. A GP or qualified mental-health professional can assess persistent symptoms.
Panic attacks and panic disorder
A panic attack is a sudden period of intense fear or discomfort that may include a racing heart, dizziness, trembling, breathlessness or feeling detached from what is happening.
Similar symptoms can have physical causes. Seek medical advice when symptoms are new, unexplained or severe. Panic disorder is a recognised condition that should be diagnosed by a suitably qualified professional.
Read more on my Panic Attacks page.
Phobias and specific fears
A phobia involves a marked fear connected with a particular object, situation or activity. Examples include flying, driving, needles, enclosed spaces and vomiting.
Avoidance can gradually affect travel, work, relationships or health decisions. Evidence-based psychological support is available through a GP or NHS Talking Therapies.
Explore my Fears and Phobias pages.
Social and situational anxiety
Some people feel particularly anxious when they may be watched, assessed or unable to leave easily. Public speaking, examinations, meetings and travel are common examples.
The pattern and severity differ from person to person. My Situational Anxiety section looks at several of these experiences in more detail.
Health anxiety
Health anxiety can involve persistent worry about illness, repeated checking or seeking reassurance. Physical symptoms should still be assessed properly. It is important not to assume that every symptom is caused by anxiety.
How hypnotherapy may fit
Hypnotherapy can help relieve anxiety and may be used as complementary support with relaxation, confidence and the response to particular situations. It is not a diagnosis or a guaranteed treatment for an anxiety disorder.
If symptoms are persistent, severe or affecting your ability to function, begin with your GP or NHS Talking Therapies. Where hypnotherapy is appropriate, it can sit alongside care supplied by other professionals.