Anxiety

Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe.

Everyone has feelings of anxiety at some point in their life. For example, you may feel worries and anxious about sitting an exam, or having a medical test or job interview.

During times life these, feeling anxious can be perfectly normal, but some people find it hard to control their worries. Their feelings of anxiety are more constant and can often affect their daily lives.

Anxiety can show in a variety of ways. This can be as changes in your body, in being constantly worried, or changes in your behaviour, such as becoming overly careful or avoiding things that trigger anxiety.

You may:

• feel tired, on edge, restless or irritable
• feel a sense of dread
• be unable to concentrate or make decisions
• have trouble sleeping
• feel sick, dizzy, sweaty or short of breath
• be shaky or trembly
• get headaches or tummy aches
• avoid situations or put off doing things you are worries about
• have difficulty falling or staying asleep
• experience a noticeably strong, fast or irregular heartbreat
• have pins and needles
• sweat excessively
• repeatedly check things or seek assurance from others

Watch the video below for some top tips to help you deal with anxiety.

If anxiety is affecting your daily life or causing you distress, call NHS 111, talk to your GP or refer yourself to our local talking therapies (IAPT) service.