I’m Concerned About Anxiety—What Do I Need to Know?
-
By
-
Robyn L. Shepardson
-
Jeffrey S. Khan
-
Jennifer S. Funderburk
-
July 1, 2026
-
Clinical Scorecard: Understanding Anxiety: Key Information You Should Be Aware Of
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Anxiety Disorders |
| Key Mechanisms | Involves cognitive, affective, physiological, and behavioral responses to perceived threats. |
| Target Population | Adults, particularly those experiencing disproportionate anxiety lasting at least 6 months. |
| Care Setting | Primary care and mental health settings. |
Key Highlights
- Anxiety is a common response to stress, but can become a disorder when persistent.
- Categories of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobia.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in treating anxiety.
- Pharmacological treatments include venlafaxine, sertraline, and fluoxetine, with effects taking 4 to 6 weeks.
- Mindfulness techniques and relaxation training can help alleviate anxiety.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assessment through symptom questionnaires and physical examination.
Management
- Integrate psychological therapy with pharmacotherapy for effective treatment.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor for adverse effects of medications and suicidal ideation in adolescents and young adults.
Risks
- Benzodiazepines are discouraged due to side effects and dependence risk.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Adolescents and young adults under 24 years may experience increased risk of suicidal ideation.
Full therapeutic effects of medications may take 4 to 6 weeks; discontinuation should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Clinical Best Practices
- Utilize CBT to address unproductive thinking patterns.
- Encourage mindfulness and relaxation techniques as adjunct therapies.
- Assess and manage side effects of pharmacological treatments.
Related Resources & Content
