Foundations of Anxiety Disorders | The Centre

Session two in the Mental Health training series, Foundations of Anxiety Disorders provides a comprehensive introduction to anxiety, exploring how stress and anxiety differ, how the body and brain respond to perceived threat, and how anxiety presents across age groups. The session builds foundational know ledge of anxiety disorders, including their causes, components, common physiological features, and their impact on daily functioning. It also equips practitioners with practical support strategies and evidence-based treatment approaches suitable for non-clinical roles.

This session is designed for practitioners working in community, child and family services, youth programs, psychosocial support, frontline service delivery, and related sectors where clients may present with anxiety.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Recognise the presenting features and common signs of anxiety disorders.
• Identify contributing biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
• Apply practical response strategies, such as grounding, paced breathing, behavioural activation, and supportive communication.
• Connect people with appropriate community-based supports and evidence-based treatment options.
• Understand the relationship between anxiety and depression and its implications for practice