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What is an anxiety disorder? Symptoms and concrete help for sufferers

Fear is a completely normal emotion. It protects us in dangerous situations by putting the body on alert. Our heart rate and breathing quicken, we become more alert and weigh up our options for action. This emotion can be vital for survival: it helps us to react more quickly when danger actually threatens.

But fear can also become unbalanced. This is referred to as an anxiety disorder.

 

Image depicting anxiety disorder shows a small person in the top left corner of the image, half of the image is covered by shadows.

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Normal anxiety vs. anxiety disorder

  • Normal anxiety is triggered by a clear stressor, such as an exam or a dangerous situation. It is temporary and subsides as soon as the situation is over or we learn to deal with it - for example by consciously breathing or relaxing.

  • Anxiety disorders, on the other hand, occur excessively frequently and intensely, even without a specific trigger. Those affected can live in a permanent state of anxiety for weeks or months. It is typical for them to avoid situations that could trigger anxiety - in extreme cases to the point of social isolation.

Types of anxiety disorders

Phobias

Phobias are fears that relate to clearly recognizable triggers. Those affected usually know what they are afraid of, but cannot control their reaction.

Examples:

  • Fear of spiders (arachnophobia)
  • Fear of heights
  • Fear of flying
  • fear of exams
  • Social phobia - i.e. the fear of being the center of attention or being judged negatively

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAS)

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by persistent and excessive worry that is not limited to a specific situation. Thoughts constantly revolve around possible dangers or problems, even when there is no reason to worry. Although the exact causes are unclear, it often occurs in conjunction with alcohol dependence, severe depression or panic disorders.

Examples:

  • Constant fear for the health of loved ones
  • Worries about financial security
  • Brooding about everyday things such as family responsibilities or housework

Panic disorder

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden panic attacks, or even the fear of panic attacks. These occur without a clear trigger and are often accompanied by intense physical symptoms that feel threatening. Many sufferers fear having a heart attack or suffocating.

Example: A person experiences a panic attack on the train or in the supermarket without a specific reason being apparent. As a result, those affected avoid such places in order to prevent further attacks.

Diagnosis and treatment by specialists

Only doctors or psychotherapists can clarify whether an anxiety disorder is present. During the assessment, the duration, severity and effects on everyday life are examined and physical causes are ruled out. It is also taken into account whether anxiety disorders occur more frequently in the family or whether other illnesses such as depression or sleep disorders are the cause.

What helps? Treatment options

Psychotherapy (first choice):

Talking therapies, especially those that involve practical exercises, have proven to be particularly effective for anxiety disorders. Those affected learn to better understand their thoughts and reactions and to deal with anxiety-inducing situations step by step. These forms of therapy can take place individually, in groups or online.

Medication:

The prescription of medication that can stabilize mental balance is also possible. Benzodiazepines are not recommended as long-term therapy due to the risk of dependency and low long-term benefits. Which treatment is appropriate should always be decided on an individual basis with a specialist.

Self-help & everyday tips:

Your own lifestyle can also make a big difference. Regular exercise, a stable sleep pattern, less alcohol and caffeine as well as breathing and relaxation exercises are helpful. Mindfulness training or yoga can provide additional support. These measures do not replace therapy, but can complement it effectively.

Recommendation of the Swiss Society for Anxiety and Depression:

Medication is particularly recommended if the anxiety is very severe and psychotherapy alone is not sufficient or not possible. They should always be part of an overall plan that also includes discussions, education and psychotherapeutic elements.

Treatment plans are drawn up individually - depending on the severity, concomitant illnesses and previous experience. Longer-term treatment is often necessary: Usually at least 6-12 months, and up to 2 years in the case of panic disorders. It is important to slowly phase out the medication when the anxiety disorder improves.

Antidepressants are most commonly used, as they are not addictive and have a proven anxiety-relieving effect. However, their effect only sets in after a few weeks.

Contact in Switzerland

Anyone suffering from persistent anxiety should not hesitate to seek help. There are various contact points for this:

First steps & advice for an anxiety disorder

  • General practitioner - central point of contact for clarification, exclusion of physical causes and referral to specialist services.

  • Pro Mente Sana: psychosocial and legal advice, Tel.: 0848 800 858.

Find a therapist

Crises & low-threshold help

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