Understanding anxiety Reviewed 20 October 2026
Anxiety: signs, what helps, and where to get support in Ghana
Everyone feels anxious sometimes, before exams, a job interview, or when money is tight. When the worry is constant and starts running your life, it may be an anxiety disorder, and it can be treated.
When worry becomes too much
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the world, affecting an estimated 470 million people in 2023. Yet only about 1 in 4 people who need treatment get any.1 Not knowing it’s treatable, and stigma, are two of the reasons.1
Signs to look out for
- Worry or fear that feels intense and hard to control
- Feeling tense, restless or irritable
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- A racing or pounding heart, sweating, shaking
- Nausea or a troubled stomach
- Trouble sleeping
- A sudden sense of danger, panic or doom
These come from the WHO’s list of anxiety symptoms.1 People often start avoiding the places or situations that make them anxious.
Small things that help
- Slow your breathing. Breathe in through your nose, then out more slowly than you breathed in. Repeat for a minute or two.
- Move. Regular exercise, even a short walk, helps.
- Keep regular meals and sleep as much as you can.
- Go easy on alcohol and avoid drugs. They make anxiety worse.
- Try a few minutes of quiet each day. Relaxation and mindfulness skills can reduce symptoms.
All of these are self-care steps the WHO recommends alongside treatment.1
Treatment works
Talking therapies, especially ones based on cognitive behavioural therapy, have the strongest evidence. A health worker may also suggest medicine for adults.1 Start with a nurse or doctor at your nearest health facility, or call the free helpline on 0800 678 678.2
Helping someone through a panic attack
Stay calm and stay close. Speak slowly: “You’re safe. This will pass. Breathe with me.” Breathe slowly together. Don’t tell them to “just relax”. When it has passed, ask what would help next time.
Common questions
What are the signs of anxiety?
Intense, hard-to-control worry, feeling tense or restless, trouble concentrating and sleeping, a racing heart, sweating or shaking, nausea, and a sense of panic or doom.
Where can I get help for anxiety in Ghana?
Talk to a nurse or doctor at your nearest health facility, or call the Mental Health Authority’s free 24/7 helpline, 0800 678 678.
Sources
StigmaClear shares education and peer support, not medical advice. If you’re worried about your health, speak to a health worker.