What are the treatment options for generalised anxiety disorder?

Generalised anxiety disorder involves persistent worry that can affect sleep, concentration, muscles and daily decisions. A clinician may assess how long symptoms have been present, what triggers them and whether depression, panic, physical illness or medicines are also contributing.

Cognitive behavioural therapy can help you notice unhelpful worry patterns and practise different responses. Other structured talking therapies may also be suitable. A GP consultation or mental health assessment can help match support to your needs.

Start with a clinical assessment before changing or stopping any medicine. Helpful routines include regular sleep, movement that feels manageable, reducing caffeine if it worsens anxiety, and practising breathing or grounding exercises. These measures support treatment but do not replace it when symptoms are persistent.

Medicines may be discussed when anxiety is severe, ongoing or limiting daily life. Your clinician can explain expected benefits, possible side effects and how follow-up will work. Improvement can take time, so keep appointments and report troublesome changes.

Arrange a GP consultation if worry is difficult to control, disrupts sleep or work, or leads you to avoid ordinary activities. Seek urgent help if you may harm yourself, feel unable to stay safe, or have severe physical symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Ask which treatment best fits your symptoms, whether talking therapy is available, how a medicine would be monitored, and what to do if anxiety suddenly worsens.