Anxiety

Anxiety Disorders

Also known as GAD, panic disorder, social anxiety

Worry and fear that stay switched on when there's no immediate threat, strong enough to shrink what you're willing to do.

The most common group of mental health conditions worldwide — roughly 1 in 5 adults in a given year.

What often comes first

Noticing several of these over weeks is a reason to talk to someone — not a diagnosis.

Worry that jumps from topic to topic and is hard to switch off
Avoiding calls, driving, crowds or specific places
Physical tension: jaw, shoulders, stomach, shallow breathing
Checking, reassurance-seeking or over-preparing
Trouble falling asleep because the mind won't stop

This page is educational and cannot diagnose you. If any of it feels close to home, bring it to a GP, doctor or therapist — and if you're in crisis, see urgent help.