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When you’re more than a little anxious

Anxiety Disorders

One in 25 teenagers (13-17 years old) will experience an anxiety disorder in any given year.  Anxiety is not the same as depression, although the two conditions share many causes and some symptoms often occur together.

There are many types of anxiety disorders and they each have a range of signs and symptoms.  The most common anxiety disorders are Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Phobia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Panic Disorder.  Over the following months, Youthbeyondblue will be letting you know about each of these anxiety disorders, available treatments and where you can seek help for yourself or your mates.

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Most of us get anxious and worried at certain times, such as before an exam or giving a talk to your class, but GAD is more than this sort of anxiety - it means the person has ongoing worries, even about small things, for at least six months. These worries may relate to any part of a person’s life, including school, family, friends and relationships.

What causes GAD?

GAD can be the result of the following factors:

  • Family history: GAD may be caused by some genetic factors, inherited from a person’s parents.
  • Stressful life events: People may be more at risk if they experience a major life change which causes stress, such as a break-up, or changing schools. Traumatic childhood experiences also increases the risk.
  • Psychological factors: Some personality traits, like being sensitive or experiencing general nervousness, may put a person at greater risk.

Getting help

If you think you may be experiencing the signs or symptoms of GAD, having a chat to a school counsellor or doctor is very helpful as they can help identify the problem and find the best way to manage it. They may give you something to read or exercises to do and/or refer you to a psychologist who specialises in the treatment of anxiety disorders.  GAD is manageable and there are many different types of treatment available - both talking therapies (and counselling) and medication.

For more information about anxiety disorders, where to get help and treatments call the beyondblue info line on 1300 22 4636.

Where can I get more information?

ReachOut - www.reachout.com

headspace - www.headspace.org.au

Kids Help Line - 1800 55 1800

Anxiety Disorders Association of Victoria - www.adavic.org.au