Awareness of Anxiety Disorders in Working Adults

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions and are characterized by excessive fear, worry, physiological arousal and avoidance that interfere with daily functioning. Working adults represent an important population because employment can provide structure and social identity, yet workplace demands, long hours, performance pressure, job insecurity and stigma may delay recognition and care. The World Health Organization describes anxiety disorders as highly prevalent and treatable, but treatment coverage remains insufficient in many Awareness among working adults is therefore a relevant public health and occupational health issue. A descriptive analytical cross-sectional study approach was used. The study population comprised 300 working adults aged 18 years and above from selected occupational sectors. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic variables, occupational profile, anxiety awareness, information sources, stigma and help-seeking intention. Awareness scores were categorized as low, moderate and high. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Among 300 working adults, 86 (28.7%) had low awareness, 134 (44.7%) had moderate awareness and 80 (26.7%) had high awareness regarding anxiety disorders. Awareness was higher among respondents with higher education, previous mental health training and regular exposure to reliable information sources. Education, workplace mental health training, source of information, stigma and help-seeking intention showed statistically significant associations with awareness and mental health behaviour.