Anxiety is a normal human response designed to protect us from danger. But when fear becomes constant, disproportionate, or disabling, it stops being protective and starts becoming a disorder. This distinction is often missed, leading many people to suffer silently while being told to “relax” or “be strong.”

Clinicians define anxiety disorders as conditions in which excessive fear or worry interferes with daily functioning. These disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, yet they remain underdiagnosed because symptoms are often internal and minimised.

How normal anxiety becomes pathological

Short-term anxiety sharpens focus and reaction. Chronic anxiety keeps the nervous system in a constant state of alert, disrupting sleep, digestion, concentration, and emotional regulation. Over time, this state exhausts the body and mind.

Common forms of anxiety disorders

• Generalised anxiety disorder: persistent, excessive worry about multiple areas of life.
• Panic disorder: sudden, intense episodes of fear with physical symptoms.
• Social anxiety: fear of judgement or embarrassment that limits social or work engagement.
• Specific phobias: intense fear linked to particular situations or objects.

Physical symptoms that mimic medical illness

Anxiety often presents with chest tightness, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, and trembling — symptoms that frequently lead to repeated medical visits before the underlying cause is recognised.

When anxiety needs professional care

• Persistent worry most days for months
• Avoidance of normal activities
• Recurrent panic attacks
• Sleep disruption and exhaustion

Effective treatment approaches

Evidence-based care includes psychotherapy, medication where appropriate, lifestyle stabilisation, and stress management. Early treatment reduces chronic disability.

Bottom line: Anxiety is common, but chronic anxiety is treatable. Seeking help is a health decision, not a weakness.