Anxiety: actions that can make symptoms worse

Around 9.4 million people in the UK are thought to be living with anxiety or another mental health condition, and experts say some common behaviours — including social withdrawal, irregular sleep, heavy alcohol or caffeine use, and prolonged inactivity — can worsen symptoms. Evidence-based treatments such as talking therapies, medications and exercise are reported to help many people, and a public campaign is encouraging therapy uptake on the NHS.

Around 9.4 million people in the UK are now thought to be living with anxiety or another mental health condition, according to an NHS campaign. Reports and research cited in the article note rising rates, concerns about impacts on work, and that many people do not seek help until symptoms are severe. Experts describe anxiety as a natural response that can become persistent and disruptive, and they report a range of evidence-based treatments are available. The piece also outlines everyday behaviours that specialists say can reinforce or worsen anxiety. What experts report: - The NHS campaign highlighted an estimated 9.4 million people in the UK living with anxiety or another mental health condition. - Common symptoms reported include difficulty sleeping, restlessness, stomach problems, palpitations and low mood; some people also experience panic attacks or specific phobias. - Evidence-based treatments mentioned include talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medications including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and beta-blockers, and exercise; combinations of treatment are often used and many patients report improvement. - Specialists in the article say certain behaviours can make anxiety worse, including prolonged social withdrawal, avoiding feared situations, heavy alcohol use, drinking caffeine on an empty stomach, irregular sleep schedules, sedentary habits and emotional overeating. - The article notes a mass media campaign encouraging people to seek therapy on the NHS, and Prof Oliver Robinson is quoted as advising people with persistent symptoms to seek professional help. Summary: Large numbers in the UK are reported to be affected by anxiety, and the article links that trend with concerns about workforce participation and wellbeing. It summarises expert views that specific everyday behaviours can reinforce anxiety while pointing to evidence-based treatments and exercise as commonly cited supports. A public campaign is underway to encourage therapy uptake on the NHS; the article does not set out a clear timeline or measurable outcomes, leaving impact undetermined at this time.