Anxiety

Anxiety is more than feeling nervous before an important event. It involves persistent worry, fear or apprehension that can be difficult to control and may interfere with daily life. While anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns in Australia, it is also highly treatable.

People experiencing anxiety may notice:

• excessive or ongoing worry

• difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• feeling restless or constantly "on edge"

• irritability

• muscle tension or headaches

• racing thoughts

• sleep difficulties

• avoidance of situations that feel overwhelming

• physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Left unaddressed, anxiety can affect confidence, relationships, work performance and overall quality of life. Many people also find themselves avoiding situations that are important to them, which can reinforce anxiety over time.

Stress

Stress is the body's natural response to demands or pressures. It can arise from work, family responsibilities, financial concerns, health issues or significant life changes. Short-term stress can be motivating; however, ongoing stress without adequate recovery can have significant consequences.

Common signs of prolonged stress include:

• feeling overwhelmed

• difficulty concentrating

• irritability or frustration

• fatigue

• disturbed sleep

• reduced motivation

• changes in appetite

• headaches or muscle tension

• increased use of alcohol or other unhealthy coping strategies.

Chronic stress has been linked to poorer physical health, increased risk of anxiety and depression, reduced productivity and difficulties maintaining healthy relationships.

Burnout

Burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion resulting from prolonged or chronic stress. While commonly associated with work, burnout can also occur in caregiving roles, study or other demanding life circumstances.

Research describes burnout as involving three key experiences:

• overwhelming exhaustion

• increased mental distance from work or reduced enthusiasm for previously meaningful activities

• reduced confidence in one's effectiveness or sense of accomplishment.

People experiencing burnout often describe feeling emotionally drained, detached, cynical or unable to "switch off." Tasks that were once manageable may begin to feel overwhelming, and recovery through a weekend or short break may no longer feel sufficient.