Quality of Life Impairment in Anxiety Disorders and Its Association with Caregiver Burden: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric illnesses, often starting in youth and following a chronic course. They substantially impair quality of life (QoL) across physical, psychological, social and environmental domains and place heavy demands on family caregivers. This narrative review synthesizes evidence on QoL impairment in anxiety disorders and its relationship with caregiver burden. Evidence indicates that QoL is markedly reduced in patients with anxiety disorders, particularly in mental health and social functioning. Greater anxiety symptom severity and comorbid depression predict worse QoL. Caregiver burden is substantial across anxiety disorders; high patient dependence, avoidance-related caregiving adaptations, persistent reassurance seeking and caregiver depressive symptoms increase burden. Cultural norms and lack of formal services further exacerbate caregiver strain. Routine assessment of QoL and caregiver burden, alongside caregiver-inclusive interventions, is essential for improving outcomes.