Learn the signs of anxiety disorders, what causes anxiety, when to seek help, and how psychiatric treatment can support recovery and improved well-being.

Understanding Anxiety: When Worry Becomes a Mental Health Condition

Everyone experiences worry from time to time. Feeling nervous before an important event, facing uncertainty, or dealing with a stressful situation is a normal human response. Anxiety can even be helpful because it prepares the body to respond to challenges.

However, when feelings of fear, worry, or nervousness become overwhelming, persistent, and start affecting daily life, relationships, work, or overall well-being, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.¹

Anxiety disorders are common mental health conditions that can affect people from all backgrounds. Many people experience symptoms for months or years before seeking help because they believe they should simply cope or that their symptoms are not serious enough to require treatment.¹

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is the body’s natural response to perceived threats or stress. It activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, which can increase alertness and help us react quickly in difficult situations.

An anxiety disorder occurs when this response becomes excessive or continues even when there is no immediate danger. The fear or worry may feel difficult to control and can interfere with everyday functioning.²

Unlike normal stress, anxiety disorders may cause ongoing distress and can lead people to avoid situations, withdraw from others, or struggle with responsibilities.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can affect a person emotionally, physically, and behaviourally.

Emotional symptoms may include:

Physical symptoms may include:

Many people first experience anxiety through physical symptoms and may seek medical attention before recognising that stress and anxiety could be contributing to what they are experiencing.

What Causes Anxiety?

There is no single cause of anxiety disorders. They usually develop through a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Possible contributing factors include:

Mental health is influenced by many areas of life, and experiencing anxiety does not mean someone is weak or unable to cope. Anxiety is a recognised medical condition that can be treated.

Different Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders can present in different ways. Some common forms include:

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

This involves excessive and ongoing worry about everyday situations. A person may find it difficult to control their concerns, even when there is no immediate reason for alarm.

Panic Disorder

People with panic disorder experience repeated episodes of intense fear or panic, sometimes accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, dizziness, or chest discomfort.

Social Anxiety Disorder

This involves intense fear or anxiety in social situations, often due to concerns about being judged, embarrassed, or criticised.

Specific Phobias

These involve intense fear of a specific object or situation, such as heights, animals, or certain medical procedures.

Anxiety and Mental Health in South Africa

Mental health conditions remain an important health concern in South Africa, with many people experiencing barriers to seeking support, including stigma, lack of awareness, and fear of judgment.²

Organisations such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) work to improve mental health awareness, provide education, and connect individuals with support services.¹

Recognising anxiety as a health condition is an important step towards encouraging people to seek appropriate care.

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

It may be time to speak to a mental health professional if anxiety:

A psychiatrist can assess symptoms, provide a diagnosis where appropriate, and recommend an individualised treatment plan.

How Is Anxiety Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and each person’s individual needs.

Treatment options may include:

With the correct support, many people living with anxiety can manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

You Do Not Have to Face Anxiety Alone

Anxiety can feel isolating, but support is available. Seeking professional help is an important step towards understanding your symptoms and developing effective coping strategies.

If persistent worry, fear, or anxiety is affecting your daily life, consulting a mental health professional can help you take the first step towards recovery.

Contact Dr. Marshinee Naidoo

Contact Us
011 869 1755 / 076 414 3285
dr.naidoo.m@gmail.com

Akeso Alberton
Akeso Psychiatrist Clinic, Alberton, Suite 04
087 098 0456 (ext. 5912)

Akeso Parktown
Akeso Psychiatrist Clinic, Parktown, Suite 17
087 098 0458 (ext. 5501)

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