Anxiety Treatment
Anxiety is more than everyday worry — when it becomes persistent, overwhelming or starts to interfere with your daily life, it is a treatable medical condition.
At Alexmed in Didsbury, Manchester, consultant psychiatrist Dr Micheal Kurkar provides private, evidence-based assessment and treatment for anxiety disorders, including support for people whose anxiety hasn’t improved with previous treatment.
You do not need a GP referral to book. If anxiety is affecting your life and you would like a specialist opinion, you can arrange an appointment or call 07376 079877.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but an anxiety disorder is when feelings of fear, worry or unease are frequent, intense and out of proportion to the situation, lasting for weeks or months. It ranges from mild to severe and often occurs alongside depression. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions — and with the right treatment, most people see a meaningful reduction in symptoms.
Types of anxiety disorder
Anxiety takes several forms, and identifying the type is part of an accurate assessment. Common anxiety disorders include:
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) — persistent, excessive worry about many areas of everyday life
Panic disorder — recurrent panic attacks with sudden, intense physical symptoms
Social anxiety disorder — marked fear of social situations and being judged
Phobias — intense fear of a specific object or situation
Health anxiety — persistent worry about having a serious illness
Anxiety with depression — the two conditions frequently occur together
Signs and symptoms of anxiety
Anxiety affects your mind, emotions and body. You may recognise several of the following, on most days:
Persistent worry, fear or a sense of dread
Feeling restless, on edge or unable to relax
Difficulty concentrating or a mind that “goes blank”
Irritability
A racing or pounding heart, palpitations
Shortness of breath, chest tightness or dizziness
Sweating, trembling or shaking
Muscle tension, headaches or stomach problems
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Panic attacks — sudden episodes of intense fear
Avoiding situations that make you anxious
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, do not wait for an appointment. Call 999, contact NHS 111 (option 2 for mental health), or call the Samaritans free on 116 123, any time, day or night.
What causes anxiety?
Anxiety usually results from a combination of factors rather than a single cause, including genetic and family history, brain chemistry, long-term or acute stress, trauma, physical illness, hormonal changes, caffeine, and alcohol or drug use. Understanding the factors relevant to you is part of a thorough psychiatric assessment and helps shape the right treatment plan.
Anxiety treatment options at Alexmed
There is no single “best” treatment for everyone. Dr Kurkar tailors a plan to the type and severity of your anxiety, your history, and your preferences. Options may include:
Psychiatric assessment and diagnosis
Effective treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis. A full psychiatric assessment clarifies which type of anxiety disorder you have, whether it occurs alongside another condition such as depression, and rules out physical causes — so treatment is targeted rather than trial and error.
Medication review and optimisation
Medication such as SSRIs can be highly effective for moderate to severe anxiety. If you are already taking medication that isn’t working, Dr Kurkar can review your diagnosis, dose and choice of medication, and adjust or switch treatment safely where appropriate.
Psychological therapy
Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are recommended for many people with anxiety, either on their own or alongside medication. Where therapy is indicated, we can advise on and signpost suitable options.
Managing anxiety with depression
Anxiety and depression often occur together and are best assessed as a whole. Where both are present, Dr Kurkar coordinates a single plan that addresses both conditions — see our depression treatment page for more.
Lifestyle and ongoing support
Sleep, physical activity, reducing caffeine and alcohol, and structured routines all support recovery. Your plan includes practical guidance and clear follow-up so progress can be reviewed and treatment adjusted.
When should you seek help for anxiety?
Occasional worry is normal, but you should consider a specialist assessment if anxiety is persistent, feels out of proportion, or is affecting your sleep, work, relationships or physical health. You do not have to wait until anxiety becomes severe — earlier support often means a shorter, more straightforward recovery. If anxiety has not responded to previous medication or therapy, a specialist review can identify what to change.
Why choose Alexmed for anxiety treatment
- Consultant psychiatrist-led care — assessment and treatment by Dr Micheal Kurkar, Consultant Psychiatrist, registered with the General Medical Council (GMC #6061661).
- Specialist in complex and co-occurring conditions — – including anxiety alongside depression.
- No GP referral required — refer yourself directly.
- Prompt private appointments — flexible times without long NHS waits.
- Convenient Manchester location — in Didsbury, serving Manchester and the surrounding areas.
Book anxiety treatment Manchester
If anxiety is affecting your life, specialist help is available. Book a private consultation with Dr Micheal Kurkar at Alexmed in Didsbury, Manchester.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral to be treated for anxiety?
No. Alexmed is a private clinic and you can refer yourself directly. Simply book an appointment online or by phone: 07376 079877.
How is an anxiety disorder diagnosed?
Through a clinical assessment with a psychiatrist, who reviews your symptoms, history and any physical or lifestyle factors, identifies the type of anxiety disorder and rules out other conditions before recommending treatment.
How long does anxiety treatment take to work?
It varies. Anti-anxiety medication such as SSRIs typically takes four to six weeks to show their full effect, while talking therapies follow their own course. Dr Kurkar reviews your progress and adjusts treatment as needed.
Can anxiety and depression be treated together?
Yes. Anxiety and depression frequently occur together and are assessed as a whole, with a single coordinated treatment plan. See our depression treatment page.
What if medication or therapy hasn't worked for my anxiety?
A specialist review can revisit your diagnosis, medication and dose, and identify what to adjust. Book an assessment with Dr Kurkar to discuss the options.
How much does anxiety treatment cost?
Fees depend on the assessment and treatment plan. Please contact the clinic for current fees before your appointment.