Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns in Boston and across the country. While feeling nervous or stressed from time to time is normal, anxiety disorders go beyond everyday worries. They can interfere with school, work, relationships, and daily routines.
More than one in four Boston adults reported persistent anxiety in 2021, up from just over one in five in 2015. Rates were higher among young adults, people with lower incomes, and LGBTQ+ residents.¹ These numbers reflect what many in Boston already feel: anxiety is widespread, and access to effective care matters more than ever.
The good news is that help is available. From local hotlines to comprehensive services at Northeast Health Services, there are many resources for anxiety therapy in Boston.
Understanding anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders include conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias. Each has its own pattern, but all can significantly impact daily life.
For example, generalized anxiety disorder often brings constant worry about school, work, or health. Social anxiety may show up as fear of speaking in class, at work, or in public situations. Panic disorder can involve sudden, intense episodes of fear with chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
Symptoms can look different from person to person but often include:
- Racing thoughts or constant worry
- Restlessness or muscle tension
- Difficulty concentrating
- Trouble sleeping
- Physical symptoms like sweating, nausea, or a racing heart
Without support, anxiety can worsen over time. But with therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, many people see significant improvements.
Local resources for anxiety treatment
1. Emergency and community lines
Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL): Call or text 833-773-2445 for free, confidential guidance. Staff are available 24/7 and can connect you with services across Boston.
NAMI Massachusetts Compass Helpline: Provides information and referrals for mental health services. Call 617-704-6264 or 1-800-370-9085.
These hotlines are a good place to start if you are unsure of where to go. They can connect you to both short-term support and long-term treatment options.
2. Campus and community supports
Boston is home to many colleges and universities, and most have on-campus counseling centers. These can be a first step, especially for short-term therapy. Community organizations also host support groups and peer-led resources for anxiety and related challenges.
For example, some local nonprofits offer free workshops on mindfulness or stress management. These resources can help while you wait for a provider or alongside ongoing treatment.
3. Professional mental health providers
When anxiety symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, working with a therapist or psychiatric provider can help. Northeast Health Services has two Boston locations in the South End and Government Center where clients can access therapy, psychiatric medication management, and interventional psychiatry. Telehealth options make care even more accessible for students and professionals balancing busy schedules.
What to expect from anxiety therapy
Effective anxiety therapy in Boston may involve different approaches, depending on your needs:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and challenge anxious thought patterns.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Builds skills for emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
- Mindfulness-based therapy: Teaches grounding and relaxation strategies.
- Medication management: Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other prescriptions may help reduce symptoms so therapy is more effective.
At NEHS, your first visit will include a thorough intake to understand your history, symptoms, and goals. From there, your provider will work with you to create a personalized plan. You may meet weekly at first, then shift to less frequent visits once you begin to feel more stable.
The Boston picture: why access matters
Nearly 27% of adults in Boston reported persistent anxiety, with the highest rates among those ages 18–24 at 29%.¹
Neighborhood data also show disparities. In Allston/Brighton, one in three adults reported persistent anxiety, the highest rate in the city. Meanwhile, residents of the South End reported lower levels overall, though the South End also had one of the highest rates of emergency department visits for anxiety and other mental health conditions.¹
These patterns show that anxiety is both common and complex, and treatment access is critical. NEHS plays an important role by offering services in Boston neighborhoods where need is high.
There’s hope and help available
Anxiety can feel isolating, but you are not alone. With nearly a third of Boston adults reporting ongoing symptoms, it is clear that this is a community-wide challenge. What matters most is finding the right support. Whether you begin with a helpline, reach out to your school’s counseling center, or schedule a session at NEHS, taking the first step can make a real difference.
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