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Read MoreAnxiety disorders affect how we think, feel and function in everyday life. Understanding the symptoms and treatment options can help you manage your anxiety and improve your mental well-being.
What is an Anxiety Disorder?
An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition marked by excessive, persistent worry or fear that disrupts daily activities. Unlike situational anxiety, which can be a temporary response to stress, anxiety disorders are ongoing and can impact your work, school and social life.
Symptoms can range from constant unease to sudden panic attacks. In cases of high-functioning anxiety, a person may appear to function well externally but struggles internally. Both genetic and environmental factors, such as family history and trauma, can contribute to anxiety. It can develop at any point in life and is one of the most common mental health conditions.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Chronic, excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as health, work or personal relationships, often without a specific cause
- Panic disorder: Recurrent panic attacks, which are sudden, intense episodes of fear that trigger physical symptoms like chest pain, dizziness or shortness of breath
- Social anxiety disorder: Intense fear of social situations, particularly those that involve judgment, embarrassment or humiliation in front of others
- Specific phobias: Extreme, irrational fears of a particular object or situation, such as heights, flying or animals, leading to avoidance behavior
- Separation anxiety disorder: Commonly seen in adolescents, it involves intense fear or anxiety about being separated from loved ones or familiar environments
- Agoraphobia: A fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in the event of a panic attack, often leading to avoiding public spaces or not leaving home
- Selective mutism: A complex anxiety disorder where a person is unable to speak in some situations despite being able to talk comfortably in other situations.
What are the Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder?
Understanding the different types of anxiety disorders can help you and your doctor develop a more targeted treatment plan to manage your symptoms effectively.
- Constant worry
- Restlessness
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Panic attacks
- Sleep disturbances
How are Anxiety Disorders Diagnosed?
Diagnosing an anxiety disorder starts with a thorough evaluation by a behavioral health specialist, who will discuss your symptoms, medical history and how anxiety impacts your daily life. Standardized assessments may be used to gauge severity. Anxiety often coexists with conditions like depression, ADHD or substance use disorders, which adds complexity to diagnosis. Ruling out other possible causes for the symptoms ensures an accurate diagnosis and guides a tailored treatment plan.
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Anxiety Disorder Treatment Options
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. This therapy helps patients develop healthier responses to stressful situations.
Medication Management
Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can help balance brain chemicals and reduce your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe them alongside therapy for optimal results.
Outpatient Programs
Outpatient programs provide flexible, personalized care. Our programs offer a wide range of services including individual, family and group therapy.
Our Approach to Anxiety Disorder Treatment
Inspira offers personalized and flexible behavioral and mental health services tailored to your unique needs. Our customized anxiety disorder treatment plans address a wide range of symptoms, from panic attacks and high-functioning anxiety to social anxiety and workplace stress. We specialize in evidence-based techniques like deep breathing exercises and confidence-building strategies to help you regain control. With ongoing progress evaluations and adaptive care plans, we ensure you stay focused on achieving your treatment goals and long-term recovery.
