Psychiatry, conditions
Generalised anxiety is worry about many everyday things that lasts and is hard to switch off. It can affect sleep, focus and the body. Care choices include self-help, talking therapy, medicine, or both, chosen with you.
Get urgent help now for a sudden severe physical change or any danger. This includes:
Do not assume a new physical symptom is anxiety just because anxiety has happened before.
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department. See crisis lines.
Everyday worry comes and goes. Generalised anxiety stays, covers many topics and gets in the way of life. People often worry about health, money, work or family. The worry feels bigger than the situation and keeps going.
It often comes with restlessness, tiredness, feeling on edge, tight muscles or poor sleep. For an overview of the different kinds of anxiety, read the anxiety guide.
A good assessment looks for physical health problems that can cause similar signs. If you have recent blood test results, bring them. Bring a list of any medicines you take.
Alcohol and drugs matter too. Some people use them to cope with worry. If alcohol or drug use has become harmful, guidance suggests treating that first, as anxiety may then improve.
Choices include learning about anxiety, self-help, talking therapy and medicine. Guidance suggests starting with the lightest step that is likely to help.
The steps usually go like this:
CBT looks at patterns of worry and what you do because of them. Applied relaxation teaches you to notice tension and relax your body.
Guidance says the choice between talking therapy and medicine should follow your preference. Neither has been shown to work better than the other.
Say so. Self-help and talking therapy are real choices in their own right. Ask which options suit you and are available. Ask what change to expect and when you will review it.
Your wishes can change over time. If a clinician thinks waiting carries a risk, you can ask them to explain why.
If you choose medicine, guidance suggests a type of antidepressant called an SSRI first. Ask about likely benefits, side effects and withdrawal effects. Ask when you will review it together.
Plan any change or stop with your prescriber. Do not change a medicine on your own.
Benzodiazepines are calming medicines that can lead to dependence. NICE guidance says not to use them to treat generalised anxiety, except for a short time during a crisis.
Missing doses can cause withdrawal symptoms. If you already take one, do not stop suddenly. Talk to your prescriber about a safe plan.
Listening and practical help are useful. Asking for reassurance is a common part of anxiety. Talk together about kind ways to respond that do not keep the worry going.
Do not suddenly pull back support as a test. For children and teenagers, school, age and family life need their own attention. For anyone under 18, a parent or guardian is part of consent.
You can ask for the reasons and for other options, in plain words. You can ask for time to think, or for a second opinion from another psychiatrist. Your rights in care page explains more.
You can reach Weave through the contact page. The anxiety assessment page explains what that appointment covers. Weave lists a focused 30-minute assessment for anxiety, mood, attention and personality patterns. Fees are on the services page.
Before you book, check the clinician, format, fee and whether the service fits your needs.