Anxiety disorders are characterized by feelings of excessive worry or fears. Although we all experience feelings of anxiety from time to time, it is the intensity of that worry or anxiety that distinguishes normal feelings from an anxiety disorder. When you have an anxiety disorder, your worries and fears are so overwhelming that they interfere with daily activities like school, work, socializing, and sleeping. There are different types of anxiety disorders such as:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Phobias
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Separation Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders are treatable. However, many people who struggle with anxiety don’t get help because they don’t know how to find the right help, or because they don’t realize their symptoms are treatable.
Did You Know?
According to the American Psychiatric Association, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting as many as 30% of Americans.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the symptoms of an anxiety disorder?
While each type of anxiety disorder has a distinct set of symptoms, some common symptoms of an anxiety disorder include:
- Trouble sleeping
- Being easily tired
- Feelings of restlessness or feeling wound up
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Problems with memory
- “Physical symptoms” – including nausea, sweating, muscle tension, trembling, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath
The symptoms of an anxiety disorder are often considered “out of proportion” for the situation and often hinder functioning. In some cases, symptoms may become so severe that they can cause an individual to avoid situations that trigger symptoms.
How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?
At Transitions Counseling, our team diagnoses anxiety by performing a formal assessment. During this evaluation, you will be asked about your symptoms, medical history, and other factors that could affect your mental health. In some cases, a medical examination may be recommended to rule out medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms of anxiety.
How are anxiety disorders treated at Transitions Counseling?
At our organization, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating anxiety disorders, recognizing that each individual’s experience with anxiety is unique. The first step in getting treatment is scheduling an appointment with one of our experienced mental health professionals. During this initial consultation, we conduct a thorough assessment to understand the severity of symptoms and the extent of functional impairment at work, school, or home. This assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the specific needs and goals of each patient.
Depending on the severity and nature of the anxiety disorder, our treatment options may include individual counseling, medication management, intensive outpatient programs, or partial hospitalization programs. Individual counseling provides a safe space for patients to explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards reducing anxiety. Medication management may be recommended to help manage symptoms more effectively. For those requiring more intensive support, our intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization programs offer structured treatment while allowing patients to maintain some daily routines. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help individuals manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.
