Anxiety and Suicide

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are associated with fear and worry. Fear is an emotional reaction to an imminent danger (real or perceived), while anxiety is related to anticipated future threats. Fear and anxiety are normal reactions that help people adapt to their environment and protect themselves from danger.

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But if they become constant and excessive, they can cause suffering and make it hard to function in day-to-day life.

What forms can anxiety disorders take?

Anxiety disorders can take many forms, including:

  • Intense fear of an animal, object, liquid, or situation in the absence of real danger
  • Fear and avoidance of social interactions
  • Sudden spikes of fear involving physical symptoms (increased heart rate and breathing, sweating, choking sensation, etc.)
  • Fear and avoidance of indoor and outdoor public spaces
  • Excessive and persistent worrying (e.g., about academic performance, performance at work, relationships, finances, the health and safety of family members, etc.)

What are the effects of anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders can have a range of long-term effects, including:

  • physical problems: Digestive disorders, cardiovascular or respiratory problems, or a weakened immune system
  • interpersonal problems: Conflicts with loved ones or isolation
  • psychological problems: Insomnia, increased use of alcohol or drugs, depression, or suicidal thoughts

Do you have an anxiety disorder and suicidal thoughts?

People with anxiety disorders may have suicidal thoughts. If this is the case for you, consult the following sections:

01 Taking stock of your mental health

The first step toward taking back control is identifying what’s causing your suicidal thoughts.

02 Taking care of yourself

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself and regain your balance when you’re having suicidal thoughts.

03 Talking about it with your loved ones

Asking for help from your family and friends isn’t always easy. There are different ways of going about it.

04 Finding support services

Every day, all sorts of people contact support services to get the help they need.

What to do if you have symptoms of anxiety

Anxiety can be treated. If you have any symptoms of anxiety, first call Info-Social at 811, option 2, to discuss your situation with a psychosocial worker and be referred, if necessary, to resources in your area that can provide support.

For an assessment and follow-up with a healthcare professional, consult a general practitioner (your family doctor, for example), a psychologist or contact your local CLSC.

Other resources can help people with anxiety disorders.

Find resources

Advice for people with anxiety disorders

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