Anxiety disorders
The term anxiety disorder refers to a group of illnesses including generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias. We will empower you to handle these intense feelings of anxiety.
What is an anxiety disorder?
An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition marked by excessive worry, fear, or apprehension that is often disproportionate to actual threats.
It includes disorders such as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms can be both physical and psychological, including trembling, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. Psychologically, individuals may experience persistent unease, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and restlessness, often feeling on edge or overwhelmed.
These symptoms can severely impact daily functioning, highlighting the importance of seeking appropriate treatment and support.
Causes of anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders are complex conditions caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and biological factors. Genetic predispositions, such as a family history of anxiety, play a significant role, as do life experiences like trauma, chronic stress, or major life changes. Psychological traits, such as perfectionism and low self-esteem, and imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly involving neurotransmitters like serotonin, also contribute to these disorders.
Diagnosing anxiety disorders
To diagnose an anxiety disorder, we typically begin with a comprehensive clinical interview to understand the patient's symptoms, their onset, duration, and impact on daily life. This interview includes exploring the patient's medical and family history, as well as any significant stressors or life events.
We then assess whether the symptoms align with the criteria for anxiety disorders. It's crucial to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms, including physical health issues, medication effects, or substance use, which might involve additional tests or examinations.
Based on this thorough assessment, we can then diagnose the anxiety disorder and propose an appropriate treatment plan, which could include therapy, medication, or a combination of approaches.
Treatment of anxiety disorders
Treating anxiety disorders involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes, tailored to the individual's specific condition and symptoms.
Medications such as antidepressants and anxiolytics are often used to manage symptoms by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly recommended form of psychotherapy that helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Lifestyle adjustments, including regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness, are also important.
Support from family, friends, or support groups can enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
The primary aim is to achieve complete symptom resolution, enabling individuals to live full and satisfying lives.
Your journey
Referral
We accept self referrals although would prefer to receive referrals from your GP or other healthcare provider, outlining relevant clinical background.
Your first assessment
You can choose to meet your doctor in person at our consulting room in Edinburgh's New Town; or by secure video call from the comfort of your own home. Our initial appointments last one hour. This will afford you plenty of time to discuss your current difficulties and your goals for treatment. We will spend the final 15 minutes discussing our formulation and treatment options. You will subsequently receive a copy of your assessment letter and treatment plan (by secure email). If you have multiple or complex issues a further assessment appointment may be required, this will be discussed with you at the start of the appointment.
Follow up
Subsequent 30 minute follow up appointments will usually be carried out by video consultation (face to face is also possible) and will be more focused on medication titration and symptom review.
Our clinical team
Dr John Ferguson
MBChB BsCMed Sci (neuroscience) MRCPsych
Dr. Ferguson is a Consultant Psychiatrist with extensive experience and a deep commitment to patient care. His journey began with a dual degree in Medicine and Neuroscience from the University of Aberdeen, driven by a fascination with consciousness and the brain. Drawn to psychiatry for its focus on understanding patients' lives, he commenced his training in Edinburgh in the early 2000s.
Throughout his career, Dr. Ferguson has remained dedicated to both public and private practice, specializing in mood disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and sports psychiatry. His personal connection to mood disorders and ADHD motivates him to provide the best possible care, aiming for full recovery for his patients.
Beyond psychiatry, Dr. Ferguson enjoys open water swimming, chess, and mindfulness. He resides in East Lothian with his family and beloved dog, Maisie.
Dr David Crocker
MBBS, BSc (Hons) PgDip IDEWM & MRCPsych
Dr David Crocker studied Medicine at King’s College London, where he soon developed a fascination with the mind and an appreciation of the fundamental importance of mental health in peoples lives. After graduating in 2013, he completed his early years as a doctor in Cornwall, before undertaking training in expedition medicine.
He moved to Edinburgh in 2018 to undertake core training in psychiatry, and in the ensuing years he gained extensive experience of psychiatric practice in various settings. He successfully qualified as a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatry in 2022.
David has a family history of ADHD and recognises first-hand how difficult it can be to feel heard, with this often poorly understood and under diagnosed condition. He prides himself on being a good listener and having a non-judgemental and personalised approach. He lives in Edinburgh and enjoys mountaineering, racquet sports, and spending time with his dog Winston.
Fees
New patient psychiatric assessment (one hour) - £350
Follow up consultation (30 mins) Consultant - £170
Private prescription - £25
Private controlled drug prescription - £30
All payments must be made at the time of booking by card payment.
Cancellation Policy
We operate a strict cancellation policy for appointments. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the appointment will be charged the full rate. Failure to attend appointments will also be charged the full rate. Cancellations can be made by emailing admin@edinburghadultpsychiatry.co.uk or phoning 0131 364 4758