Anxiety is an emotion that includes feelings of dread about impending events and is characterized by an unpleasant state of emotional conflict. In contrast to fear, which is defined as the emotional reaction to a present threat, anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat. It is frequently accompanied by somatic complaints, anxious behavior like pacing back and forth, and negative thinking.
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by significant and uncontrollable feelings of anxiety and fear that significantly impair a person’s social, occupational, and personal functions. Anxiety can cause physical and cognitive symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, increased heart rate, chest pain, abdominal pain, and a variety of other symptoms that vary from person to person.
Trauma and Stressor Disorders
These disorders are linked to a traumatic experience, such as a car accident, or a stressor, such as a divorce or starting college. Among the anxiety disorders that fall into all three of these categories are:
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Separation Anxiety Disorder
- Selective Mutism
- Agoraphobia
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety
Common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:
- Feeling restless, nervous, or tense.
- Being easily exhausted.
- Having trouble concentrating.
- Being agitated.
- Muscle aches, stomachaches, headaches, or other unexplained pains.
- Having a hard time controlling worries
- Having sleep issues, such as difficulty falling or remaining asleep.
If you believe you are experiencing anxiety, talk to your doctor.
Screenings and Diagnosis for Anxiety
Anxiety and certain medical conditions can occasionally be linked. Providers can look for indications of underlying illnesses or drug use that might make you anxious. If your doctor suspects a medical condition as the cause, he or she might ask for a urine or blood test.
In cases of extreme anxiety, your doctor might suggest that you seek the assistance of a mental health professional who can identify and treat your condition.
Treatments for Anxiety
Psychotherapy is the most common anxiety treatment. This therapy is also referred to as talk therapy or psychological counseling. Working with a therapist is an option to lessen your anxiety symptoms.
The most successful type of psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy focuses on imparting knowledge, giving you advice on how to improve your symptoms, and helping you to gradually start engaging in the activities you put off due to anxiety.
If you or a family member is struggling with addiction, know that there are numerous resources and options for support and treatment.
At Open Arms Life Center, we are dedicated to providing you or your loved one with individualized care options so you can get back to your best self as quickly as possible. Reaching out for help is the first step.
Let us know about your psychiatric-related inquiries. Please send us a message to get started.