A panic attack is one of the most frightening medical experiences a person can have — and severe anxiety disorder can make leaving the house, let alone going to work, completely impossible.
WHAT IS A PANIC ATTACK?
A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions — racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating — with no apparent external cause. Many people experiencing their first panic attack believe they are having a heart attack.
Panic attacks are exhausting and can leave you physically and emotionally depleted for hours afterwards.
IS ANXIETY A VALID REASON FOR A SICK NOTE?
Yes. Anxiety disorder — including generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, and agoraphobia — is a recognised medical condition. When it is preventing you from functioning, it is a valid reason for a fit note.
WHEN ANXIETY MAKES WORKING IMPOSSIBLE
Anxiety can affect work in numerous ways:
● Inability to commute (agoraphobia or transport anxiety)
● Inability to be in a workplace environment (social anxiety)
● Panic attacks during work hours preventing safe functioning
● Severe anxiety-related insomnia causing daytime impairment
● Inability to concentrate or make decisions
● Physical symptoms (palpitations, stomach pain, chest tightness) that are debilitating
GETTING A SICK NOTE FOR ANXIETY ONLINE
Dr Sick's online consultation process is designed to be as low-anxiety as possible. No phone calls, no waiting rooms, no explaining yourself out loud. Just an online form, in your own time and space.
Our GMC-registered doctors review every submission with clinical care and issue fit notes for anxiety where clinically appropriate — typically within 2 hours.
You deserve support. Visit drsick.co.uk.
