Is Anxiety a Disability? Understanding Anxiety and NDIS Support in Victoria

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Have you ever felt your heart racing, palms sweating, and mind spinning with worry? We’ve all experienced anxiety at some point. But for some, anxiety isn’t just a fleeting feeling—it’s a constant companion that can severely impact daily life.

I’m Daniel G. Taylor, a mental health speaker living with bipolar disorder. During my two years of homelessness, I experienced anxiety so severe it needed treatment for the first time in my life. While I don’t have an anxiety disorder, I understand how debilitating it can be.

Today, we’re diving into a question many Victorians ask: Is anxiety a disability? We’ll explore how anxiety disorders relate to the NDIS and how the scheme can empower people to lead their best lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Severe anxiety can be classified as a psychosocial disability.
• The NDIS can provide support for people with anxiety disorders.
• Anxiety disorders can impact various life areas, from relationships to career.
• Treatment options include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
• Support is available beyond the NDIS, including Centrelink payments.

What Makes Anxiety a Disability?

Anxiety is more than just feeling stressed or worried. It’s a mental health condition that can significantly impact a person’s life.

But when does anxiety become a disability? It’s all about impact. If anxiety severely affects your daily functioning, it may be classified as a psychosocial disability.

The NDIS defines a psychosocial disability as a disability arising from a mental health condition. This means the anxiety must create substantial difficulties in areas like:

• Learning
• Mobility
• Communication
• Social interaction
• Self-care
• Managing daily tasks

It’s not just about having anxiety. It’s about how that anxiety affects your life.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges.

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

This is like having a worry switch that’s always “on.” People with GAD experience persistent anxiety about various aspects of life.

Panic Disorder

Imagine feeling intense fear that comes out of nowhere. That’s what panic attacks feel like for people with this disorder.

Social Anxiety Disorder

This makes social interactions feel like walking through a minefield. People with this disorder may avoid social situations altogether.

Specific Phobias

These are intense, irrational fears of specific objects or situations. Think fear of heights, spiders, or flying.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

This involves recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) that a person feels compelled to perform.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety.

How the NDIS Can Help

If your anxiety significantly impacts your life, the NDIS might be able to help. The scheme provides support for people with psychosocial disabilities, including severe anxiety disorders.

But how do you access this support? Here’s a quick guide:

1. Get a diagnosis from a GP or mental health professional.
2. Work with your doctor to create a mental health plan.
3. Apply for NDIS funding, providing evidence of your disability and its impact.

The NDIS can fund various supports, including:

• Psychological therapy
• Counselling
• Support workers
• Skills development programs
• Assistance with daily living tasks

Remember, the goal is to empower you to live your best life, despite your anxiety.

Beyond the NDIS: Other Support Options

The NDIS isn’t the only support available for people with anxiety disorders in Victoria.

Centrelink Payments

If your anxiety affects your ability to work, you might be eligible for the Disability Support Pension or other Centrelink payments.

Community Mental Health Services

Many local health services offer mental health support, including counselling and group therapy sessions.

Anxiety Disorders Association of Victoria

This organisation provides support, information, and resources for people with anxiety disorders.

Empowering Life Areas Affected by Anxiety

Anxiety doesn’t just affect one part of your life—it can impact everything. Let’s look at how we can empower the 7 key life areas often affected by anxiety:

1. Intellect: Anxiety can cloud your thinking. Try mindfulness techniques to clear your mind and boost creativity.
2. Career: Work-related anxiety is common. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress.
3. Health: Anxiety can take a toll on your physical health. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage symptoms.
4. Relationships: Anxiety can strain relationships. Open communication with loved ones is key.
5. Impact: Social anxiety can limit your influence. Start small by joining online communities or support groups.
6. Prosperity: Financial worries can fuel anxiety. Seek financial counselling or budgeting help if needed.
7. Spirituality: Anxiety can disconnect you from your sense of purpose. Explore meditation or mindfulness practices to reconnect.

Remember, progress in these areas is a journey, not a race. Be kind to yourself along the way.

Treatment Options for Anxiety Disorders

Managing anxiety often requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some common treatment options:

Psychological Treatments

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Exposure Therapy
• Mindfulness-Based Therapies

Medications

• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular exercise
• Healthy diet
• Stress management techniques
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine

Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Conclusion: Anxiety is More Than Just Worry

So, is anxiety a disability? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Severe anxiety that significantly impacts daily life can be classified as a psychosocial disability. But remember, having an anxiety disorder doesn’t define you.

With the right support and treatment, many people with anxiety disorders lead fulfilling lives. The NDIS and other support services in Victoria are there to help you on this journey.

Action Steps

1. If you’re struggling with anxiety, talk to your GP or a mental health professional.
2. Look into NDIS eligibility if your anxiety severely impacts your daily life.
3. Explore local support services and resources in Victoria.
4. Practice self-care and stress management techniques daily.
5. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
6. Read the next post in this series on empowering people with vision impairments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right support and resources, you can learn to manage your anxiety and live a fulfilling life. It’s not about eliminating anxiety completely—it’s about learning to thrive despite it.

Daniel G. Taylor

Daniel G. Taylor has been writing about the NDIS for three years. His focus has been on mental health and psychosocial disabilities as he lives with bipolar disorder I. He’s been a freelance writer for 30 years and lives across the road from the beach in Adelaide. He’s the author of How to Master Bipolar Disorder for Life and a contributor to Mastering Bipolar Disorder (Allen & Unwin) and he’s a mental health speaker.