Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Anxiety disorders
Everyone can feel anxious at some times in their life, for instance before a big test or preparing for an important event. This can be a useful feeling that can even help us, for instance motivating us to deal with a problem or alerting us to a dangerous situation. However, for some people, anxiety can come often and with no obvious cause, and they may need help.
If your brother or sister has a problem with anxiety, it may be that they feel anxious and worried for no apparent reason at all, and these feelings might lead to them feeling worried, irritable or restless, and can also lead to physical symptoms such as feeling dizzy or sick, and getting headaches or stomach aches.
Someone who is suffering from extreme anxiety might develop phobias, and can have what are known as panic attacks, and for some people in can be in the form of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Sometimes anxiety can feel so extreme to someone that it can feel like it is ruling their life and they need to seek help.
If your brother or sister is experiencing serious anxiety problems, it can help for them to see a GP or talk to a trusted adult or school counsellor.
They may be offered self-help tips on how to cope with their anxiety, or could be offered treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, where people learn how to deal practically with their emotions, or in some cases, medication.
You can also contact Rethink's advice and information service for more information.
on Facebook
on Twitter