Anxiety disorders affect many individuals, making ordinary situations challenging and often unmanageable (AI image)
The National Mental Health Survey, conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (Nimhans) across 12 states between 2014 and 2016, found that 2.57% of adults had an anxiety disorder at the time of assessment. Around 83% of those affected were not receiving treatment, while nearly 60% experienced disability of varying severity, according to the study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry in 2022. As a result, he added, for many people with an anxiety disorder, it’s a life lived in second gear: not ready to take up new challenges as one prefers to stick to known schedules.
This is because he plans his route carefully to ensure he is never more than five minutes from a hospital in case he “suffers a heart attack while driving”. Stigma surrounding mental illness and a lack of awareness contribute to the problem,” said psychiatrist Dr Kedar Tilwe of Fortis Hospital, Mulund. “People are getting more and more cognisant of this disorder,” said Dr Chavda, adding that considerable gaps remain in recognising and diagnosing these conditions. Some will not travel without their spouses or may turn down promotions or jobs that require them to venture beyond familiar surroundings,” said Dr Tilwe.
MUMBAI: Whenever Thane businessman Shekhar travels to south Mumbai for a meeting, he sets off more than three hours early. “Anxiety disorders are frequently under-recognised and inadequately treated. Everyday anxiety is a normal response to uncertainty or danger. An anxiety disorder, however, involves persistent or disproportionate fear that interferes with daily life. “Patients may avoid bridges, crowded trains, flights or traffic jams. Anxiety disorders are treatable, but a trained physician is needed to recognise the problem. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the disorder and may involve psychotherapy, medication or both.
