Anxiety disorders aren't just feeling nervous or worried. It's when these feelings persist and become so intense that they interfere with your daily life. The experience varies widely for everyone—some people may face specific fears like social situations or panic attacks, while others may have a more generalized, constant anxiety. Physical symptoms, like a racing heart or sweating, can also occur. Different people, different experiences, but all under the umbrella of anxiety disorders.

Depression and other mood disorders involve persistent emotional difficulties that can profoundly impact an individual's well-being. They are characterised by symptoms such as prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, and disturbances in sleep patterns and appetite. People experiencing mood disorders often struggle with low energy levels, poor concentration, and may even have thoughts of self-harm. The negative effects can extend beyond personal distress, affecting relationships, work or academic performance, and overall quality of life.

PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event involving death, serious injury, or sexual violence. People with PTSD may experience distressing memories, flashbacks, nightmares, and actively avoid reminders of the trauma. They may also exhibit negative changes in mood, cognition, and heightened arousal, such as irritability and hypervigilance.

OCD is a condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that can range from fears about germs or safety, to doubting one's sexuality, or even worrying about causing harm to others. These obsessions often lead to repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions) in an attempt to manage the distress.

Substance use difficulties arise when the use of substances like alcohol or drugs starts to negatively impact one's life. This can manifest in various ways, such as impaired work or school performance, strained relationships, difficulties in meeting daily responsibilities, or struggling to quit despite a genuine desire to do so.