What do I do if I think I have an anxiety disorder?

Some people with anxiety try to medicate or relax themselves by using alcohol and drugs (even things like sleeping pills), which may seem to make the anxiety or stress go away.  This is not a good solution because drugs and alcohol create only a false and temporary sense of relaxation (ie. the anxiety will come back when the drugs wear off).

If you have an anxiety disorder, it may be difficult for your friends or family to understand how you feel.  Sometimes people give unrealistic advice - like telling you to just "stop worrying".  Though they may have the best intentions, they may not understand that it's not that simple.  You may have to explain this to them.  Ir you think you may have an anxiety disorder, don't wait to ask for help - anxiety can be overwhelming, and it can prevent you from enjoying yourself, your friends, your school and social activities.

Many young people find that opening up to SOMEONE THEY TRUST by saying "I have been feeling really anxious lately and I think I need to speak to someone" can be a good way to open the discussion.  Ask that person to arrange an appointment with a mental health professional or GP.

There are treatments that can help young people with anxiety disorders feel much better, often fairly quickly.

What Will Treatment Involve?

Treatment for anxiety may include medication, or talking therapy or a combination of both.

Though not every young person who has an anxiety disorder needs medication (in fact, most don't), the right medication can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, and can be a great relief to someone whose anxiety symptoms are causing tremendous distress.  Often when doctors prescribe medication, they begin with a very small dosage, and gradually increase to the dosage that works best for you. 

The talking therapy part involves talking with a mental health professional about the stresses and anxiety they are feeling.  Getting support and sorting thruogh problems by talking them through can be helpful to young people with anxiety.