Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion, but when it is constant and uncontrollable, it may indicate an anxiety disorder.

Types of anxiety

• Generalized anxiety disorder: Constant worry about many things
• Panic disorder: Sudden, intense anxiety attacks
• Social anxiety: Anxiety in social situations
• Phobias: Intense fear of a specific thing

Physical symptoms

• Heart palpitations
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach problems

When to seek help?

Seek help if the anxiety is constant, limits your everyday life or causes strong physical symptoms. Anxiety disorders are very treatable.

Treatment

Anxiety responds well to treatment with psychotherapy and, when needed, medication.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has strong research evidence in the treatment of anxiety disorders
• Exposure therapy helps especially with fears and phobias
• Medication: a doctor assesses whether medication would be of benefit
• Self-care: Relaxation exercises, exercise, mindfulness and a regular sleep rhythm

How to get treatment?

1. 1.Contact the health centre or occupational health
2. 2.A doctor assesses your situation and can write a referral
3. 3.Kela rehabilitative psychotherapy is possible if a diagnosed anxiety disorder threatens your ability to work or study and you have been treated for it for at least 3 months

When is anxiety normal and when should you seek treatment?

Anxiety is a normal reaction to a threatening or uncertain situation. It is worth seeking help when the anxiety is strong or long-lasting, interferes with work, studies or relationships, or makes you avoid things that are important to you.

Where to get help?

Treatment for anxiety can begin at the health centre, occupational health or student health care, where your situation is assessed and you are directed to suitable treatment. Treatment options include psychotherapy and, when needed, medication, and the choice is made together with a professional. In acute distress, call the emergency number 112.