Anxiety Disorders and Therapy – A Comprehensive Guide
In brief
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders –they affect about one in five Finns at some point in their lives. The good news is that anxiety disorders are highly treatable. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most researched effective treatment, and most people experience significant relief from their symptoms through therapy.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal emotion that warns of danger and helps prepare for challenging situations. An anxiety disorder is present when anxiety is persistent, disproportionate, and significantly impairs daily life.
Types of anxiety disorders
| Disorder | Key feature | Prevalence |
|---|---|---|
| Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) | Persistent worry about many things | ~5 % |
| Social Anxiety Disorder | Fear of being judged | 5–10 % |
| Panic Disorder | Sudden panic attacks | 2–3 % |
| Phobias | Disproportionate fears of specific things | 7–9 % |
| Health Anxiety | Fear of serious illness | ~5 % |
| Performance Anxiety | Anxiety in performance situations | ~15 % |
Physical symptoms of anxiety
Anxiety is not just a matter of mind — it also strongly affects the body. The body reacts to anxiety with the same fight-or-flight mechanism as to real danger.
- Heart palpitations and chest pain
- Shortness of breath and hyperventilation
- Muscle tension, headaches, and back pain
- Stomach issues, nausea
- Sweating, trembling, dizziness
- Sleep difficulties
Treatment methods for anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
The most researched effective treatment for anxiety disorders. CBT helps identify and change thoughts and behavior patterns that maintain anxiety. Includes exposure exercises for feared situations.
Medication
SSRIs are the first-line medication for anxiety. Effects begin within 2–4 weeks. Medication can be used alone or alongside therapy.
Self-care
Regular exercise, adequate sleep, mindfulness and relaxation exercises, reducing caffeine and alcohol. Self-care doesn't replace professional help, but supports recovery.
How to seek help for anxiety?
- Recognize symptoms
If anxiety is persistent, limits your daily life, or causes intense physical symptoms, it may be an anxiety disorder. - Visit a doctor
A health center, occupational health, or private doctor will assess your situation, make a diagnosis, and write a B-statement if needed. - Find a suitable therapist
A therapist specializing in anxiety, preferably CBT-trained. You can search by specialty on Mintera. - Apply for Kela reimbursement
Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy reimburses part of therapy costs with an anxiety disorder diagnosis.