Anxiety is a normal everyday experience. Optimal amount of anxiety will in fact motivate one to perform better.

In Generalised Anxiety Disorder, the anxiety symptoms occurs most of the day, persistent and may not be restricted to any particular environmental circumstances (ie. Free-floating).

SYMPTOMS
The physical symptoms of anxiety are muscle aches, tremors, palpitations, breathless, stomach upset, frequent urination, falling sick more often, sweating dizziness etc…

The psychological symptoms of anxiety are irritability, feeling sad, restlessness, excessive worrying, panicky, crying, poor concentration and memory.

INCIDENCE
1-year prevalence of 3% and lifetime prevalence of 5%.

CAUSES

• Genetic – may have a familial inheritance
• Biochemical – Hormonal and chemical imbalance, eg, Nor-adrenergic system
• Cognitive – misinterpreting physical sensation as threatening or having a serious medical condition

SOURCES OF ANXIETY

• External eg school, work, financial etc….
• Internal eg personality type, problem-solving and social skills

TREATMENT
Bio-psycho-social intervention.

• Pharmacological – Medications eg. anti-depressants and sedatives (short-term)
• Psychological – cognitive therapy, stress management
• Social – appropriate adjustments to environmental factors, eg, work, home

Seek treatment early. Don’t suffer unnecessarily. Help is available and effective.

PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION
For appointments call 6389 2200 or fax 6385 1075.

Clinic hours:

Monday to Thursday	- 8am to 5.30pm
Friday	- 8am to 5pm

INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH
We endeavour to promote mental health through the provision of person-focused service that is integrated, comprehensive, accessible, cost-effective and by pursuing continuous learning and research.