Find your calm again with expert treatment for anxiety disorders
Living with an anxiety disorder can feel like being on high alert every day. It’s more than just feeling worried or stressed; it is a draining experience that can show up with mental, emotional and physical symptoms, and affects daily life and relationships.
If you feel like your world has become smaller because of anxiety, or that you are just “managing” your symptoms rather than addressing the root cause, you are not alone. Anxiety is the most common mental health challenge in the UK, yet it is also one of the most treatable when met with the right expertise.
The reality of anxiety in the UK
Evidence suggests that 8.2 million people in the UK are experiencing an anxiety disorder at any given time. This means that while your struggle may feel isolating, it is a challenge shared by millions – and one that our specialists understand well.
At The London Psychiatry Centre, we don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” solutions. We combine compassionate, evidence-based therapies with pioneering medical innovations to help you find a sense of wellbeing that lasts.
How anxiety disorders show up in daily life
Symptoms of anxiety disorders vary from person to person, and include mental, emotional and physical effects. Anxiety may be mistaken for other conditions, including ADHD and autism, but also physical health conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, irritable bowel syndrome and menopause.
Physical symptoms
- Racing or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent fatigue or restlessness
- A feeling of pain or tightness in the chest
- Muscle tension
- Headaches
- Stomach issues (nausea, diarrhea)
- Shakiness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating or chills
Emotional and mental symptoms
- Constant worrying and fixation on future problems or past mistakes
- Feeling “on edge” or irritable
- Fear of losing control
- A sense of dread or panic
- A need for reassurance from others
- Intrusive thoughts (repetitive, unwanted thoughts or mental images)
- Hypervigilance (a heightened sense of alertness to potential threats around you)
Behavioural effects
- Avoiding social plans or work events
- Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
- Perfectionism and overpreparing for situations
- Inconsistent diet or eating patterns
- Compulsive actions (such as constantly checking if doors are locked)
- Reduced contact with friends and family, and difficulty maintaining relationships
- Substance misuse
The rise of social anxiety after the COVID-19 pandemic
For many, the return to “normal” life hasn’t felt normal at all. If you find that social situations now feel more daunting than they did a few years ago, you are part of a significant post-pandemic trend.
The prolonged periods of isolation and “digital-only” interaction we experienced during the lockdowns acted as a form of “reverse exposure therapy.” By avoiding in-person social interactions for so long, our brains became more sensitive to the perceived risks of being judged, observed, or acting “awkwardly” in person. For some, this has evolved from a temporary hesitancy into a persistent Social Anxiety Disorder.
A generation in distress
The shift in our collective mental health is reflected in recent data, showing a marked increase in the number of people struggling to navigate the social world.
A doubling of anxiety referrals
According to national statistics, the number of children and young people referred to mental health services for anxiety has more than doubled compared to pre-pandemic rates. In the 2023-24 period alone, there were over 204,000 new referrals where anxiety was the primary cause – a stark increase from approximately 98,000 in 2019-20.
Frequently asked questions
about anxiety disorders
What are some different types of anxiety disorders?
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive and unrelenting anxiety and worry.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): These are generally characterised by uncontrollable, intrusive thoughts and repetitive, ritualised behaviours such as repeatedly washing hands or checking mirrors.
- Panic disorder: When a person has frequent panic attacks that are not triggered by specific situations.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): While historically associated with servicemen who’ve been in battle, PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced a significantly stressful or traumatic situation.
- Phobias: These are often the source of anxiety or panic attacks. They’re typically triggered by specific objects or situations. Most phobias fall into one of four categories: fear of the natural environment; fear related to animals; fear related to medical treatments or issues; and fear related to specific situations (such as being in enclosed spaces or travelling by aeroplane). However, almost any object or situation can become a phobia.
What’s the difference between anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder?
Anxiety is a normal human emotion that usually arises in response to a specific trigger. It is typically tied to a stressful event, like a job interview, a financial bill, or a health concern; however, it usually fades once the stressful situation has passed or the problem is resolved.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder where the feeling of anxiety persists and is difficult to control, even when there is no immediate threat. It is not tied to a specific event, and the worry is often “out of proportion” to the actual risk. To be diagnosed with GAD, these feelings must be present on most days for at least six months.
However, you don’t have to wait six months to be seen by a specialist and get support. If anxiety is impacting your daily life, a medical expert can guide you in finding the best pathway before your anxiety develops into a disorder.
How do I know if my anxiety is “serious enough” for a specialist?
If your anxiety is stopping you from doing the things you enjoy; affecting your sleep, work or relationships; or making you feel constantly “on edge,” it is worth a consultation. You don’t need to wait for a crisis to seek help. Our highly experienced specialists look at the root causes of your distress to help you find a sustainable way to feel well again.
Will I be prescribed medication?
Not necessarily. At The London Psychiatry Centre, we believe in a balanced, integrated approach. While medication can be a helpful tool for some, we also offer evidence-based talking therapies and world-leading non-invasive treatments like rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). We will always discuss all options with you to find a path that aligns with your preferences.
Can you help if I’ve been misdiagnosed before?
Yes. Many of our patients come to us after years of “trial and error” with other providers. Anxiety can often be a symptom of another unaddressed condition, such as ADHD. Anxiety also often co-exists with subthreshold bipolar disorder, which is commonly misdiagnosed as treatment-resistant depression. Patients with a GAD diagnosis are 12 times more at risk for bipolar disorder than the rest of the population. Our consultants are experts in precision diagnosis, using thorough clinic investigations to ensure your treatment plan is targeting the correct underlying cause.
How long will it take to see an improvement?
Every journey is unique, but because we offer immediate access without waiting lists, many patients begin to feel a sense of relief simply by having a clear, expert-led plan in place. With treatments like CBT or rTMS, many people notice a significant reduction in their physical and emotional symptoms within the first few weeks of starting their tailored programme.
Do I need a referral to book a consultation?
No, you do not need a GP referral. We offer a discreet and confidential service, and you can book a private consultation directly with our team. Your privacy is our priority from the very first point of contact. If you’d like to find out how we can help you, please call us on 020 7580 4224 and we’ll be happy to talk you through the different treatment options available.