Ever felt like your thoughts are out of control, racing through your mind, stuck on a loop? All while your heart is pounding, palms are sweating, and stomach is churning? Have you found yourself avoiding certain situations for fear they might trigger these symptoms? If so, you’re not alone. 

Prevalence of anxiety disorders

In a recent national study spanning from 2020-2022, researchers surveyed over 30,000 Australians aged 16 to 85. The findings were eye-opening. Nearly one in three Australians (28%) will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Furthermore, in the previous 12 months, one in six Australians (17.2%) experienced an anxiety disorder. That’s the equivalent of 3.4 million Australians! 

Among the anxiety disorders reported, Social Phobia (sometimes called Social Anxiety) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) were the most common. Participants also reported experiencing Agoraphobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. This illustrates the broad ways in which anxiety can be experienced. 

Impact of anxiety disorders

At Headstrong Psychology, anxiety is the most common issue reported by our clients. Many describe feeling overwhelmed by the intense physical sensations of anxiety, all of which take a toll on their physical and mental well-being. The struggle to keep anxiety at bay means it is often not long before their anxiety impacts all areas of life. This can include study and work performance, relationships and dating, confidence and self-worth, and overall enjoyment of life. In trying to avoid anxiety’s hold, some find their world shrinking, leaving them feeling isolated and distressed. 

Anxiety and gender

While anxiety is commonly experienced, it does affect some people more than others. Women, in particular, bear a heavier burden. Over one in five (21.1%) women report an anxiety disorder in the past 12 months, compared to 13.3% of men. This gender gap persists across all age groups, highlighting the need for tailored support to address the unique stressors women face. 

At Headstrong Psychology, our clients identify many factors contributing to their anxiety as women. These include pressures of fertility issues, balancing work and family responsibilities, caring for older and younger generations of family, financial strain, undergoing perimenopause and menopause, and gendered violence. 

Anxiety and age

Another significant factor influencing anxiety disorder prevalence is age. Young people (aged 16-24) grapple with anxiety at an concerning rate, with nearly one in three (31.8%) reporting an anxiety disorder. This number gradually declined across age groups. 

Our clients tell us the pressures of studying, balancing study and work, finding employment in the current economy, feeling connected to others, establishing their independence, dating and relationships, and navigating identity issues, all contribute to their anxiety as young people. 

Anxiety and the LGBTQ+ community

For those in the LGBTQ+ community, a staggering half (50.3%) reported experiencing an anxiety disorder in the past 12 months. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for inclusive mental health services to address the unique needs of this community. Our clients describe the overt and more subtle forms of harassment and discrimination they experience across all areas of life. In addition, they face a lack of access to inclusive services that understanding their unique needs, and barriers to expressing their identity and realising their life goals.   

While anxiety is a common experience for many Australians, it is one that remains distressing and debilitating for those who experience it. Every person with anxiety will have their own unique factors that contribute to their anxiety. They will experience the impact of their anxiety on their well-being and life in different ways. The good news is there are many psychological therapies that are effective in treating anxiety and can be tailored to each person’s circumstances and goals. 

Further Resources

To read more about the mental health of Australians, check out the findings from the study, the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing.

The Centre for Clinical Interventions in Western Australia has a wealth of information and self-help resources for anxiety, among other mental health issues. Head to their website for further details.

If you’re ready to take the next step in managing anxiety, you’re welcome to reach out to us. The Headstrong Psychology team are able to assess and diagnose anxiety disorders and offer a range of treatment options. Please get in touch with us on 0431 998 351.

Photo credit: Ana Tavares on Unsplash