Anxiety and Panic Attacks

It is normal to feel worried or concerned about certain situations. For example, job interviews and exams as it helps us to prepare for what is important to us.

In some ways, a certain level of anxiety is a positive thing as it protects us from danger. Anxiety becomes a problem when it impacts our day-to-day life in a negative way.

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that effects all genders in young people and adults. Anxiety can be triggered by several different circumstances, and this is specific and individual to each specific person.

Causes of Anxiety may include

  • Phobias
  • Physical health concerns
  • Trauma
  • Other mental health conditions
  • Alcohol and drug misuse

Anxiety Symptoms may include

  • Uncontrollable worry that causes distress
  • Feeling restless or on edge
  • Having difficulties concentrating
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Feeling irritable
  • Heart palpitations
  • Cold sweats or excessive sweating
  • Fast paced breathing

Treatments for anxiety may include

  • Lifestyle changes
  • Talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Self-help tools
  • Medication
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Panic Attacks

Panic Attacks are when a person gets a sudden rush of intense fear and anxiety which causes a physical reaction.

Symptoms may include:

Shortness of breath, chest pain, sweating, dizziness, nausea, trembling or confusion. During Panic Attacks, it is common that you feel as though you are losing control.

Most people with anxiety can get better with time whilst accessing the right help, support and treatment.

 

Treatments options include:

Lifestyle changes, talking therapies and medication.

Help Lines

Samaritans

116 123 

Shout

If you would prefer not to talk but want some mental health support, you could text SHOUT to 85258. Shout offers a confidential 24/7 text service providing support if you are in crisis and need immediate help.

Papyrus HOPELINEUK

0800 068 41 41
88247 (text)
pat@papyrus-uk.org
papyrus-uk.org
Confidential support for under-35s at risk of suicide and others who are concerned about them. Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)

0800 58 58 58
thecalmzone.net
Provides a helpline, online and WhatsApp chat, as well as information and support, for anyone affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts.

SANEline

If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10pm every day).

Nightline 

www.nightline.ac.uk

If you’re a student, you can look to see if your university or college offers a night-time listening service. Nightline phone operators are all students too.

Anxiety UK: www.anxietyuk.org.uk

Mind UK: www.mind.org.uk

NHS Anxiety and Panic Attacks: www.nhs.uk/conditions/panic-attacks

NHS 111 – urgent mental health helpline

You can contact NHS 111 any time to access support for your health. To get urgent mental health support, call 111 and select option 2.

If you feel that you are unable to keep yourself safe, or if you feel you are at risk to yourself or others, then please contact 999 or visit your local Accident and Emergency (A&E)