Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorder is more than everyday stress. It is a persistent pattern of excessive fear, worry, or dread that interferes with work, relationships, or sleep. Several distinct forms exist, including generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Across Southeast and East Asia, high-pressure work cultures and urban density are recognised as contributing factors, and awareness has grown considerably in countries such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Medicine used to treat Anxiety Disorder
What drives anxiety disorders
The causes are rarely a single thing. Genetic predisposition, early-life stress, and ongoing life pressures all contribute. Chronic sleep loss, excessive caffeine, and some physical conditions (thyroid problems, for instance) can mimic or worsen anxiety symptoms. In practice, anxiety and depression often occur together, which is why medicines used for one frequently help with the other.
Managing anxiety disorder
Structured psychological therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, remains the most evidence-supported first step. When medication is part of the plan, options from the antidepressants category are commonly used for long-term management. Doxepin, an older tricyclic agent with sedating properties, may be considered where anxiety overlaps significantly with insomnia or depression.
If anxiety becomes overwhelming or you experience thoughts of self-harm, contact a crisis line: Samaritans of Thailand 02-713-6793, Samaritans of Singapore 1767, or your country’s equivalent.