What are Anxiety Disorders? - UK Medical Guide
Comprehensive medical guide for UK residents: understanding anxiety disorders, NHS services, and treatment options aligned with NICE guidelines
NHS Mental Health Services
- • GP Referral: First point of contact for mental health concerns
- • IAPT Services: Improving Access to Psychological Therapies
- • Community Mental Health Teams: Specialist support services
- • Crisis Support: 24/7 mental health crisis teams
UK Statistics
- • 8.2 million people in UK experience anxiety disorders
- • 9.7% of British adults have mixed anxiety and depression
- • 18 weeks average NHS waiting time for mental health services
- • CBT recommended as first-line treatment by NICE
In the United Kingdom, anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of British residents. These disorders represent a group of mental health conditions characterised by persistent, excessive fear and worry that significantly interfere with daily activities, work performance, and relationships.
NHS Integration:
Our resources complement NHS mental health services and follow NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines for anxiety disorder treatment. All information aligns with British healthcare standards and can be used alongside your GP and NHS mental health services.
NICE Recommendations:
- • CBT is recommended as first-line psychological treatment
- • Self-help resources should be offered as initial intervention
- • Stepped care approach from low to high intensity interventions
- • Regular monitoring and review of treatment progress
Getting Help
- • GP Appointment: First step for NHS mental health referral
- • Self-Referral: Many IAPT services accept self-referrals
- • NHS 111: 24/7 health advice and urgent care guidance
- • Online Services: NHS-approved digital mental health tools
Crisis Support
- • Samaritans: 116 123 (free 24/7 emotional support)
- • Crisis Text Line: Text SHOUT to 85258
- • Emergency Services: Call 999 for immediate danger
- • NHS Crisis Teams: Local mental health crisis support
Complement Your NHS Care
Use our free, evidence-based resources alongside your NHS treatment. All resources follow NICE guidelines and complement traditional British mental health services.