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Worry and anxiety

How everyday worry differs from anxiety that needs care, common signs, things that help, and when to get support.

Worry and anxiety

Everyone feels anxious sometimes, for example before an exam or an interview. This kind of worry usually passes.

For some people, fear and worry become very strong and hard to control. They last a long time and get in the way of daily life. This is when anxiety may need care.

Anxiety is common and it can be treated. It is not a sign of weakness.

Common signs

Anxiety affects the body as well as the mind. Some people have sudden waves of intense fear, called panic attacks. Other signs can include:

• Worrying a lot and finding it hard to stop
• Feeling tense, restless or irritable
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• A racing or pounding heart
• Sweating, trembling or shaking
• Feeling sick or having an upset stomach
• Trouble sleeping
• Avoiding places or situations that make you anxious

Things that can help

These simple steps can support your well-being:

• Practise slow breathing. Breathe in gently, then breathe out slowly for a little longer.
• Be active most days, even if it is just a short walk.
• Keep regular times for eating and sleeping.
• Cut down on alcohol and avoid drugs. They can make anxiety worse.
• Spend a few minutes each day noticing what you can see, hear and feel right now.
• Talk to someone you trust about what is worrying you.

How professionals can help

Talking therapy is a key treatment for anxiety. A trained counsellor or therapist helps you learn new ways of thinking and coping.

They can also help you slowly face the situations you have been avoiding. Therapy can be one-to-one or in a group, in person or online.

A health professional can assess what you are going through and discuss your options with you.

Good help exists, but WHO says only about 1 in 4 people with anxiety disorders get any treatment. Asking for help is a strong first step.

When to get help

Get help if worry or fear lasts for weeks, feels hard to control, or stops you doing everyday things.

Get help too if you are using alcohol or drugs to cope, or if you have thoughts of harming yourself.

If you or someone else is in danger right now, use the crisis numbers on this page or call 999.

You can use Tymira Care Finder to find a counsellor, clinic or other support near you or online.

General information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. A professional can talk through what's right for you. Reviewed 2026-11-01.

Sources

• WHO: Anxiety disorders (fact sheet)
• WHO: Stress (questions and answers)

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