The NHS has launched a nationwide campaign encouraging people living with anxiety to come forward for treatment, warning that millions across England may still be struggling without professional help.
New figures show that more than 670,000 people accessed treatment for anxiety and other common mental health conditions over the past year. While health leaders say this reflects steady progress in expanding access to care, they believe many more people could benefit from support but are not yet seeking it.
It is estimated that around one in five adults in England is living with a common mental health condition, including anxiety and depression. Despite this, a significant number delay asking for help. One of the most common reasons is the belief that their symptoms are not severe enough to justify treatment. Health professionals are now working to challenge that perception, stressing that early support can prevent conditions from worsening and reduce the impact on daily life.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of NHS Talking Therapies services, which offer free and confidential treatment for a range of anxiety related conditions. These services, previously known as Improving Access to Psychological Therapies, provide evidence based support including cognitive behavioural therapy, counselling, guided self help and group sessions. In many parts of the country, individuals can refer themselves directly without needing to see a GP first.
Health leaders say the message is simple. Anxiety does not have to reach crisis point before help is appropriate. Persistent worry, difficulty sleeping, panic attacks, low mood or problems coping with everyday tasks are all valid reasons to seek support. By addressing symptoms early, patients are more likely to experience quicker improvement and avoid more complex interventions later.
The NHS has also expanded digital and remote options in recent years, allowing patients to attend appointments online or by telephone. This flexibility has been particularly important for people balancing work, childcare or other commitments. It has also helped reach those who may feel uncomfortable attending face to face sessions.
Alongside therapy, the NHS is increasingly integrating employment support into mental health services. Anxiety can significantly affect someone’s ability to work, while job insecurity or unemployment can in turn intensify symptoms. By offering tailored employment advice and practical guidance as part of treatment plans, services aim to support both recovery and financial stability.
Rising anxiety levels have been linked to a range of pressures in recent years. The lasting effects of the COVID 19 pandemic, cost of living concerns, housing insecurity and workplace stress have all contributed to heightened levels of worry for many people. Younger adults have reported particularly high rates of anxiety, although the condition affects people across all age groups, backgrounds and communities.
Despite greater public awareness of mental health, stigma continues to act as a barrier. Some individuals still feel embarrassed about seeking help or fear they will not be taken seriously. Others worry that accessing treatment will be complicated or involve long waits. The NHS campaign seeks to reassure the public that services are accessible and designed to provide timely, supportive care.
Early intervention is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to manage common mental health conditions. Research consistently shows that talking therapies can reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall wellbeing. Treatment can also help people develop coping strategies that build resilience and reduce the likelihood of relapse.
Health leaders have welcomed the increasing numbers accessing care but maintain that there is more work to do. Expanding awareness, reducing stigma and simplifying referral routes are seen as key steps in closing the treatment gap. By encouraging people to recognise symptoms earlier and understand that support is free and confidential, the NHS hopes to reach those who may otherwise continue to struggle in silence.
Anyone experiencing ongoing anxiety, panic, sleep disruption or difficulty functioning in daily life is encouraged to explore available support. Even mild symptoms can have a significant impact if left unaddressed. With services available across England, officials say there is no reason for people to face anxiety alone.
The campaign represents a broader commitment to strengthening mental health provision nationwide. As demand continues to rise, the focus remains on ensuring that more people are able to access effective treatment at the right time, improving both individual wellbeing and long term public health outcomes.
