Anxiety

Anxiety is part of everyday life. It is a natural response to situations which we find stressful or threatening. We feel our heart rate increase, our mouths go dry and butterflies in the stomach - all a result of the increase in adrenaline which is produced as part of the 'fight or flight' defence mechanism. This is normal.

It is when these symptoms are present all the time, without a cause, and at a level so severe that they interfere with our daily lives, that the response is abnormal. So-called 'free-floating anxiety' can cause severe distress and itself cause further anxiety. There are effective drug treatments, which should be used short term, while psychological treatments can be applied.
 
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The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.