Anxiety

What is an anxiety disorder?

Anxiety disorders are conditions affecting your mental health, causing you to fear or dread things that don’t bother many other people. 

While it’s common to be anxious from time to time, an anxiety disorder often interferes with your ability to function at work, in school, or in social situations. It can be difficult to complete everyday tasks without treatment.

Which symptoms can anxiety disorders cause?

Symptoms of an anxiety disorder may include:

• Extreme or ongoing anxiousness
• Constant fear or worry
• Panic attacks
• Overreacting to everyday situations
• Uncontrollable and obsessive thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating
• Racing heartbeat
• Restlessness
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Muscle tension
• Trouble sleeping
• Avoiding situations that trigger anxiousness

Women are twice as likely as men to have an anxiety disorder. Left untreated, it can negatively affect your or your child’s overall well-being. 

What are the different types of anxiety disorders?

Different types of anxiety disorders include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): frequently worrying about everyday things
• Panic disorder: having multiple panic attacks
• Agoraphobia: fear of being overwhelmed or unable to escape situations
• Social anxiety disorder: fear or worry in social situations
• Phobias: intense fear of something specific, such as heights or small spaces
• Separation anxiety disorder: anxiety when separated from a loved one
• Selective mutism: fear of talking in specific situations

Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and acute stress disorder are similar to anxiety disorders. 

The cause isn’t clear, but anxiety disorder risk factors may include brain chemical changes, genetics, stress, trauma, and drug or alcohol misuse. 

How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?

Demetria uses DSM-5 criteria to diagnose anxiety disorders and determine how to treat your specific condition. She reviews your mental health history, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, then tailors an anxiety disorder treatment plan, offering long-term success and a better quality of life. 

How are anxiety disorders treated?

Your customized anxiety disorder treatment plan may consist of:

• Lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• Medication management
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Exposure therapy
• Other forms of psychotherapy

It’s helpful to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, stay active, and manage stress. Maintain a strong social support network and follow up with Demetria for therapy sessions and medication monitoring. You can call her anytime with questions.

Schedule an anxiety disorder evaluation at Aspire Behavioral Health LLC by calling the office or booking an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.