A Complete Guide to Treating Anxiety Disorders (Hong Kong Edition)

As an editor, I often receive private messages from readers asking, "My heart rate is racing, my breathing is rapid, and I'm constantly worried. Is this anxiety?" In fact, anxiety disorder is not uncommon in Hong Kong. According to the Department of Health and various mental health studies, one in six to seven adults in Hong Kong may experience some degree of anxiety symptoms. However, many people delay seeking treatment due to fear of being labeled or the belief that "just bear it." Today, I've compiled authoritative online information, combined with local medical resources, to provide a detailed breakdown of anxiety treatment options.

---

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorder is not simply "tension" or "worry," but rather a persistent, excessive feeling of anxiety accompanied by physiological reactions such as palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, gastrointestinal discomfort, insomnia, etc. Common types include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Specific phobias
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

---

Common treatment methods in Hong Kong

1. Psychotherapy

In Hong Kong, if anxiety disorders are mild to moderate, doctors often first recommend psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) .

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  With the help of professional psychologists or psychiatrists, patients can be helped to identify negative thought patterns and cope with anxiety in healthier ways.

  • Advantages: No drug side effects, long-term improvement of thinking patterns
  • Disadvantages: Requires ongoing participation and relatively high costs (HK$800–$1,500 per visit in private clinics)

• Exposure Therapy
  It is particularly effective for phobias or social anxiety disorder, by gradually facing the source of fear and reducing anxiety reactions.

Psychological treatment options available in Hong Kong:

• Psychiatric departments in public hospitals (longer waiting times)
• NGOs (such as New Life Mental Rehabilitation Association, Caritas, and registered psychologists of the Hong Kong Psychological Society)
• Private clinical psychologist or psychiatrist

---

2. Medication

Doctors may prescribe medication for people with moderate to severe anxiety disorders, or when psychotherapy is not effective.

• Antidepressants (eg, SSRIs, SNRIs)
  It is often used for long-term anxiety control. It has relatively mild side effects, but it takes several weeks to be effective.
• Benzodiazepines
  It is mainly used for short-term relief of acute anxiety, but there is a risk of addiction and it must be used under the strict supervision of a doctor.
• Beta-blockers
  Used to relieve physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat caused by anxiety.

💡Editor 's Tip : Psychiatric outpatient clinics in Hong Kong public hospitals offer lower-cost medication, but waiting times can be months long. Private clinics, while providing immediate treatment, are generally more expensive (ranging from approximately HK$800–$2,000 per consultation including medication).

---

3. Self-management and lifestyle adjustments

In addition to psychological and drug treatment, lifestyle changes are equally important:

• Regular exercise : at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week
• Get enough sleep : Get 7–8 hours of sleep
• Reduce caffeine and alcohol : Avoid stimulating anxiety symptoms
• Mindfulness meditation and breathing exercises : soothing the nervous system
• Social support : Staying connected with friends, family, or support groups

In Hong Kong, some community centers and colleges offer mindfulness workshops, yoga classes, and emotion management courses at affordable prices or even for free.

---

4. Emergency and Support Resources (Hong Kong)

If your anxiety symptoms suddenly worsen, or you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek help immediately:

• The Samaritans of Hong Kong : 2389 2222 (24 hours)
• Caritas Xiangqing Hotline : 18288
• Lifeline : 2382 0000
• Hospital Authority Accident and Emergency Department : Immediate psychiatric assessment

---

Editor's summary

Anxiety disorders are not something to be feared. The most important thing is to identify them early and seek help . In Hong Kong, whether you choose public, private, or NGO services, there are various resources available to assist you. The most frightening thing is to endure it alone. I encourage everyone not to be afraid to speak up with professionals, as anxiety disorders can be treated, managed, and even cured.

---

Disclaimer : This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. The source is referenced from major medical articles.