Anxiety
Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in the UK, affecting 1 in 6 adults at any one time. Anxiety disorders — including generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and health anxiety — are distinct from normal stress responses in that they are persistent, excessive and significantly impair daily functioning. Effective, evidence-based treatments are available.
What it is
Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in the UK, affecting 1 in 6 adults at any one time. Anxiety disorders — including generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and health anxiety — are distinct from normal stress responses in that they are persistent, excessive and significantly impair daily functioning. Effective, evidence-based treatments are available.
Symptoms and signs
- Persistent worry or sense of dread that is difficult to control.
- Physical symptoms: palpitations, chest tightness, breathlessness, muscle tension, nausea.
- Panic attacks — sudden intense surges of anxiety with physical symptoms peaking within minutes.
- Avoidance of situations, places or activities because of fear.
- Sleep disturbance, fatigue and poor concentration associated with persistent anxiety.
How we investigate
Clinical interview and validated rating scales (GAD-7, PHQ-9, HADS). Exclusion of physical causes (thyroid disease, arrhythmia, anaemia) with targeted blood tests where appropriate. Risk assessment. Formulation and treatment plan.
Treatment options at The Vesey
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) — first-line evidence-based psychological treatment; typically 6–12 sessions.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — evidence-based mindfulness and values-based approach for chronic anxiety.
- SSRI/SNRI medication — sertraline, escitalopram or duloxetine; initiated and monitored by consultant psychiatrist.
- Short-term anxiolytic support — where clinically appropriate, under specialist supervision.
- Psychoeducation and self-management — breathing techniques, sleep hygiene, activity scheduling.
When to see a specialist
- Anxiety that has persisted for more than 6 weeks and is affecting work or relationships
- Panic attacks occurring more than once per week
- Health anxiety or OCD that is significantly impairing daily life
- Anxiety that has not improved after self-help or GP treatment
- Need for medication review alongside or instead of therapy
See a mental health specialist within 7 days. No GP referral required. Learn more →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for anxiety treatment at The Vesey? +
No. You can self-refer directly to The Vesey for psychology or psychiatry consultations for anxiety. We will write to your GP with your consent.
How much does anxiety treatment cost at The Vesey? +
CBT session from £110. Initial psychology assessment £280. Consultant psychiatric assessment £350 if medication is needed. See /specialty/mental-health-services.
How quickly can I be seen? +
Same-week psychology and psychiatry appointments are typical. Same-day assessment in urgent presentations where clinically appropriate.
What therapies are available for anxiety at The Vesey? +
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), psychoeducation, and psychiatric assessment for SSRI/SNRI medication where indicated.
What is the difference between anxiety and an anxiety disorder? +
Normal anxiety is a proportionate response to stress. Anxiety disorder (GAD, panic disorder, social anxiety, health anxiety) is persistent, excessive, and impairing daily function.
What treatments are available for anxiety? +
First-line: CBT (most evidence-based). Second-line: SSRI or SNRI medication. Combined approach most effective for moderate-severe anxiety. The Vesey offers both CBT and psychiatric assessment.
How do I know if I need therapy or medication? +
Mild-moderate anxiety: CBT is first-line. Severe anxiety or where CBT alone is insufficient: SSRIs (sertraline, escitalopram) are recommended by NICE. A psychiatrist or GP can advise.
How much does anxiety treatment cost? +
CBT session from £110. Initial psychology assessment £280. Consultant psychiatric assessment £350 if medication is needed. See /specialty/mental-health-services.
Book an appointment
When to see a specialist
Seek specialist assessment if anxiety is affecting your ability to work, maintain relationships, or carry out daily activities, or if you have tried self-help strategies without sufficient improvement.
Cost and pathway
CBT session from £110. Initial psychology assessment £280. Consultant psychiatric assessment £350. Self-pay and insurance accepted (BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix).
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our mental health team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.88/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
View our mental health services →
Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727