Anxiety is a feeling of worry, fear, or unease that most people experience from time to time. It can show up in specific situations, like exams or interviews, but for some people it becomes more persistent and can start to affect daily life, sleep, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
There are many different types of anxiety, and it can feel different for everyone. The good news is that there are practical ways to understand anxiety better and tools that can help you manage it.
Understanding anxiety
These resources explain what anxiety is, what causes it, and the different types of anxiety people may experience.
Types of anxiety from Anxiety UK. Clear explanations of different anxiety conditions and how they can affect daily life.
Anxiety disorders factsheet from Re-think Mental Illness. An overview of anxiety disorders, symptoms, and available support options.
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) factsheet from NHS Inform. Trusted NHS information about anxiety, symptoms, and treatment options.
Anxiety factsheet from the Mental Health Foundation. An introduction to anxiety, including causes, symptoms, and coping strategies.
Anxiety and panic attacks factsheet from Mind. Information on anxiety and panic attacks, including practical advice and support.
Factsheet on anxiety from Psychology Tools. A clinical overview of anxiety, including how it works and how it can be treated.
Tips and information
Practical advice and strategies to help manage anxiety, reduce stress, and build coping skills.
Dealing with anxiety, Mind to Mind from NHS Inform. Short guidance on understanding and managing anxious feelings.
11 tips to help manage anxiety from Psychology Today. Everyday strategies to reduce anxiety and improve emotional wellbeing.
Information and activities on anxiety from Get Self-help. Interactive tools and practical exercises to support anxiety management.
Anxiety self-help guide from NHS Inform. A structured guide to understanding and coping with anxiety.
Myths and misconceptions about anxiety’ article from Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Explains common misunderstandings about anxiety and how it actually works.
Anxiety management strategies from Beyond Blue. Practical techniques for managing anxiety in daily life.
How to cope with anxiety from Healthline. Simple coping strategies and advice for reducing anxious thoughts and feelings.
Tips to manage anxiety and stress from Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Practical tips for handling stress and anxiety in everyday situations.
How to reduce anxiety from Headspace. Mindfulness-based strategies for calming the mind and reducing worry.
Relaxation mindfulness exercises can help you manage your anxiety. Check out our section on relaxation and mindfulness exercises here:
Worksheets and activities
These worksheets can help you explore anxiety and develop practical coping strategies.
Anxiety worksheets from the Centre for Clinical Interventions. Structured worksheets to help understand and manage anxious thoughts and behaviours.
Thought record sheet for anxiety from Get Self-help. A tool to help identify and challenge anxious thinking patterns.
Organisations and services
Here is a list of local organisations related to anxiety:
Health in Mind. Friendly, peer-led support groups offering a safe space to connect with others and explore positive ways of managing anxiety and depression.
Health All Round. Develop your relationship with anxiety by increasing your understanding, connecting with others and learning tools & strategies. Facilitated by experienced mental health practitioners and counsellors.
Here is a list of UK wide organisations related to anxiety:
Anxiety UK. Support for anxiety, from people who understand. Run by and for, people with anxiety.
If you are looking for local support, please go to our service directory to find out what services and projects are available to you.
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