Anxiety and panic

Overview

Anxiety can affect thoughts, sleep, concentration and the body. A racing heartbeat, sweating, trembling or a feeling of breathlessness may accompany fear. Panic describes a sudden surge of intense distress. Similar physical symptoms can have other causes, so a new episode should not automatically be labelled anxiety.

The impact matters as much as how an episode feels. Worry about another attack may make travel, work or being alone difficult. Anxiety can also be present most of the time without obvious attacks. Seeking help is reasonable when fear changes what you can do or becomes difficult to manage.

By telephone

A telephone discussion can help organise the pattern: what starts first, whether episodes are expected, what you fear will happen and how you recover. Describe both physical sensations and thoughts. Mention avoidance, reassurance seeking, disrupted sleep and any effects on relationships, responsibilities or leaving home.

It can also be useful to discuss pressures, recent changes, alcohol or caffeine use and support already tried. Your priorities may be understanding the symptoms, finding an appropriate assessment or exploring talking-therapy options. Explain what feels manageable now; a useful discussion need not depend on having a clear explanation beforehand.

What cannot be done remotely

A conversation alone cannot exclude heart, breathing or other physical problems. New chest symptoms, collapse or severe breathlessness require the appropriate urgent assessment. An in-person examination or other investigations may be needed before symptoms can safely be attributed to anxiety.

A general consultation is not a full course of psychological therapy. Repeated panic, significant avoidance or other mental health symptoms may need a more detailed assessment. If you find talking difficult, prepare brief notes and say whether you need pauses or help explaining your main concern.

What to prepare

• Note the setting, sequence and recovery of recent episodes.
• List activities you have started avoiding and the effect on daily life.
• Describe sleep, current pressures and any support that has helped.
• Bring questions about assessment and the next appropriate source of support.

Sources

• NHS: Anxiety, fear and panic
• NHS: Panic disorder
• NHS: When to call 999

Related guides

• Stress and feeling burnt out
• Low mood and loss of interest
• Obsessions, compulsions and OCD concerns