Groundbreaking study to treat those suffering with anxiety

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Psychiatrist Professor Sean Hood recently spoke to ABC radio about a groundbreaking study to help treat people diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

Sean said anxiety is the most common condition across the nation.

The study looks at identifying the genes that influence a person’s risk of developing anxiety and their response to treatment.

“It is estimated roughly one in six adults have a significant anxiety related condition that could benefit from treatment,” Sean said.

“With the disorder being a growing condition, this kind of research can help psychiatrists in determining the best way to treat and manage it.”

The study involved 5,000 people and contains questionnaires and interviews to help clinicians to analyse if there is a significant problem that needs further investigation.

Sean is also head of the University of WA Division of Psychiatry.