Managing Anxiety: When to Seek Help
When Is Anxiety More Than Normal Worry?
Feeling anxious before a big event or during a stressful period is a normal part of life. However, when anxiety becomes persistent, excessive, and begins to interfere with daily activities, relationships, or work, it may indicate an anxiety disorder that benefits from professional treatment.
How Common Is Anxiety?
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) affects approximately 1 in 10 South Africans at some point in their lives. Other common forms include panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias.
Symptoms of Anxiety
- Persistent worry that feels difficult to control
- Restlessness and fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and muscle tension
- Sleep disturbances
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms are often what bring patients to our practice first:
- Racing heart or palpitations
- Shortness of breath and chest tightness
- Dizziness and nausea
- Headaches
Many patients worry they have a heart condition before discovering that anxiety is the underlying cause.
When Should You Seek Help?
Consider seeking professional help when anxiety:
- Persists for more than two weeks
- Interferes with your ability to work or maintain relationships
- Causes you to avoid situations or activities
- Leads to substance use as a coping mechanism
- Is accompanied by persistent low mood or thoughts of self-harm
Treatment Options
Treatment for anxiety is highly effective. Options include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) — helps identify and change negative thought patterns
- Mindfulness-based approaches
- Lifestyle modifications — regular exercise, reduced caffeine, improved sleep hygiene
- Medication when appropriate
At NeoHealth, Dr Chellan holds an FPD qualification in clinical management of mental health and takes a holistic, compassionate approach. There is no shame in seeking help — early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between normal worry and an anxiety disorder?
Normal worry is temporary and related to specific events. An anxiety disorder involves persistent, excessive worry that lasts more than two weeks and interferes with daily activities, work, or relationships.
Can anxiety cause physical symptoms?
Yes. Anxiety commonly causes physical symptoms including a racing heart, shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Many patients initially believe they have a heart condition before anxiety is identified as the cause.
How is anxiety treated?
Anxiety is treated with a combination of approaches including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, lifestyle changes (exercise, reduced caffeine, better sleep), and medication when appropriate. Treatment is highly effective, and most people see significant improvement.