Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problems — one in four people will experience one during their lifetime. Panic attacks, social anxiety and other anxiety disorders are treated by psychiatrists across Estonia, particularly in Tallinn and Tartu. DocuMental Clinic offers diagnosis and treatment via video consultation — no waiting list. Consultations are conducted by our specialist psychiatrists.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Panic disorder and panic attacks
Recurrent sudden episodes of intense fear peaking within minutes and lasting around 10–15 minutes. Because attacks are unpredictable, anticipatory anxiety develops and depression often follows.
Symptoms of panic attacks:
- racing or pounding heartbeat
- sweating, trembling or shaking
- shortness of breath or feeling of choking
- chest pain or discomfort
- nausea, dizziness, faintness
- derealisation or depersonalisation
- fear of losing control or dying
- hot flushes or chills, numbness or tingling
Many people with panic disorder initially call an ambulance, mistaking attacks for a heart attack. Panic disorder is often accompanied by depression and agoraphobia.
Social anxiety disorder (social phobia)
Marked fear in social situations where a person fears judgement or humiliation. Typical situations:
- public speaking and conversations with colleagues
- interacting with strangers
- being the centre of attention
- being in small groups — parties, meetings, classrooms
Social phobia most commonly begins in childhood (ages 5–7). Without treatment it leads to low self-esteem, depression and social isolation.
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)
Persistent uncontrollable worry about work, finances and family lasting weeks or months. Additional symptoms:
- constant nervousness and irritability
- muscle tension, inability to relax
- difficulty concentrating, heightened startle response
- lump in the throat, difficulty falling asleep due to worry
Specific phobias and agoraphobia
Phobias are irrational fear of specific situations or objects: animals, heights, blood, enclosed spaces, aeroplanes. Agoraphobia is fear of situations from which escape may be difficult. Phobias typically begin between ages 7 and 10.
Treatment of Anxiety Disorders
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment — particularly for phobias. Explaining the nature of anxiety often initiates recovery even before medication begins.
Pharmacological treatment
- Antidepressants: SSRIs (sertraline, escitalopram, fluoxetine) — first-choice medications for panic disorder, social anxiety and GAD; treatment course at least 6 months
- Anxiolytics: xanax, diazepam, lorazepam — short-term only at start of treatment, strictly under medical supervision; dangerous combined with alcohol
Antidepressants restore the neurochemical balance in the brain and prepare the ground for psychotherapy. Many patients say: ‘I know the fear is unreasonable but I can’t do anything about it.’ The right medication helps bring fear under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anxiety disorders be treated online in Estonia?
Yes. Our psychiatrists carry out assessments and select treatment via video call. This is particularly important for patients in Tallinn and Tartu. The online format also lowers the barrier for patients with social phobia or agoraphobia who find it difficult to visit clinics in person.
How do you tell a panic attack from a heart attack?
The symptoms are very similar. The key difference: a panic attack peaks within minutes and resolves on its own, leaving no physical damage. With a first attack it is important to rule out cardiac pathology. If cardiac investigations are normal but attacks recur — this is panic disorder and a psychiatrist should be consulted.
Do anxiety disorders require antidepressants even without depression?
Yes. SSRIs are effective for anxiety disorders regardless of whether depression is present — they restore the neurochemical balance disrupted by anxiety. The name ‘antidepressants’ is historical; their range of application is much broader.
Related articles
🔗 Depression and bipolar disorder — symptoms and treatment
🔗 OCD — obsessive-compulsive disorder
🔗 PTSD and adjustment disorder
Book a Psychiatrist Appointment for Anxiety in Estonia
If panic attacks, constant anxiety or phobias are interfering with your daily life — do not delay seeking help. Anxiety disorders respond well to treatment.
DocuMental Clinic offers online appointments across Estonia, including Tallinn and Tartu. Video consultation with our specialist psychiatrists — no referral needed, no waiting list.
Current pricing is available on the booking page.
👉 Book an appointment: https://documental.clinic/en/
Author: Psychiatrist, Prof. Eduard Maron
