What is anxiety disorder?
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders and affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. While anxiety is a normal response to stress and beneficial in some circumstances, those with anxiety disorder have a heightened sense of nervousness, anxiousness, fear, or anxiety.
There are several types of anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder.
Those who battle anxiety disorder often anticipate a future concern, leading them to experience muscle tension and demonstrate avoidant behavior. Those with an anxiety disorder will try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. This often has repercussions on work performance, school performance, and personal relationships.
How do I know if I have anxiety disorder?
Signs to look for to know if you have an anxiety disorder include fear or anxiety that hinders your ability to function normally. The fear or anxiety is also out of proportion to the situation or is age inappropriate.
What is causing my anxiety disorder?
The causes of anxiety disorder are currently unknown but are believed to be a result of a combination of factors. One’s genetic makeup, as well as environmental, psychological, and developmental factors all likely play a role. Research suggests that the combination of genes and environmental stresses produces these disorders.
What treatment is available for anxiety disorder?
Each anxiety disorder is unique but most have been found to respond well to two types of treatment:
Psychotherapy: this consists of talk therapy with a licensed therapist. One particular type of talk therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), helps individuals reprogram their thinking, reactions, and behaviors, helping them become less anxious.
Medications: medications provide significant relief for those who battle anxiety disorder. The most common medications consist of anti-anxiety medication, antidepressants, and even beta blockers. While medication is useful and effective, it will not cure the anxiety disorder.
Self-management: coping effectively with anxiety disorder is made easier with the use of stress management techniques and meditation. Those who battle anxiety disorder often seek out support groups. Being surrounded by supportive friends and family members also helps alleviate some symptoms. Those with anxiety disorder should avoid caffeine as that has been found to exacerbate symptoms.
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety disorders, consider making an appointment and speaking with one of our licensed providers.