[email protected] – https://www.iampsychiatry.com/anxiety-disorders

Dealing With Anxiety DisordersAnxiety that is chronic and disrupts everyday life isn’t normal. Doctors can prescribe talk therapy and medication to ease anxiety.The most common therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relaxation techniques and exposure therapy. There is also a variety of medications that can treat anxiety-related symptoms, including modern antidepressants.TreatmentFeeling anxious or fearful on occasion is a normal response to stress. However, anxiety disorders can cause persistent and excessive feelings of anxiety or fear, often out of proportion to the circumstance. They can also impact the daily activities of a person and relationships. Medications can help relieve some of the symptoms. To recover fully, individuals must learn healthier ways to manage and deal with their anxiety.People with anxiety disorders can receive treatment from a health care specialist or psychiatrist (a medical doctor who specializes in mental health), psychologist, social worker or counselor. The health care professional will inquire about the symptoms and medical history, and may even perform an examination. They can also request tests in the laboratory to rule out other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms.Talk therapy or psychotherapy and medication are two treatment options for anxiety disorders. The type of treatment you receive and the duration will depend on the disorder, its severity and how long you have been experiencing it. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used form of talk therapy used to treat anxiety. This approach assists people in identifying negative thoughts and patterns of thought and then change them. It can also teach people to employ relaxation techniques and exposure responses to lessen anxiety.Another form of therapy that is used to treat anxiety is called interpersonal therapy, also known as IPT. This therapy can be helpful for people suffering from anxiety that is related to their relationships, like social anxiety disorder or fears. Interpersonal therapy can help individuals discover healthy ways of expressing emotions and improve communication with other people.The medications that can ease some anxiety symptoms include antidepressants, benzodiazepines and beta blockers. A doctor will prescribe the best medication to treat a patient’s illness and will also address any possible side effects. It is essential to not stop taking medication prescribed by a physician unless you have been told to. In some cases, sudden discontinuation of certain medications could cause withdrawal symptoms, such as brain zaps that feel like shocks.Alternative methods to treat anxiety include meditation, yoga and self-management techniques such as stress reduction and good sleep habits. In addition, people with anxiety can benefit by joining a support group for other people suffering from the same condition that can provide empathy, understanding and shared experiences. One should avoid the use of caffeine and other substances, which can make anxiety symptoms worse. In addition, it is essential to get enough sleep and eat healthy and balanced meals. Regular exercise and spending time in the company of friends can help reduce stress.Signs and symptomsSome people may be anxious at times, such as when they start the new job or take tests. If anxiety continues to be a problem and begins to interfere with the daily routine, then help is needed. Anxiety disorders can cause anxiety and panic that are insignificant to the actual risk and are difficult to manage and last for a long period of time. Anxiety disorders can cause people to avoid situations and places that trigger their symptoms.Patients suffering from anxiety disorders often use medication and attend therapy or counseling. The most popular treatment for anxiety disorders is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). CBT helps patients to recognize and alter the thoughts or behaviors that cause their symptoms.Other medications can also help ease anxiety symptoms. Beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure) can, for instance reduce heartbeats that are rapid and other physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Antidepressants, often prescribed to treat depression can also aid in reducing anxiety. Examples include SSRIs such as Lexapro (escitalopram) and SNRIs like duloxetine (Cymbalta), and venlafaxine, (Effexor). Benzodiazepines can also be helpful for people suffering from anxiety. They can have severe side effects and addiction. Examples are diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin).Education is also important to aid in recovery. For instance, knowing about the physiology behind the “flight-or-fight” response which is normal and assists us in dealing with perceived or actual threats, can help dispel myths that could be causing anxiety. It’s also helpful to understand that certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism and heart disease, can trigger anxiety symptoms. People with these conditions should undergo an entire physical exam to rule out any issues.A healthy diet, getting plenty of rest and staying active can all aid in reducing anxiety symptoms. Avoiding alcohol and recreational street drugs is also a good idea, because they can trigger them. Smoking cigarettes can make the condition worse. Talking to friends and family members in person, either face to face as well as through online support groups, can be helpful too.DiagnosisEveryone feels anxiety and fear at times – they are normal and helpful human emotions that help us cope with danger. When these feelings become intense and hinder the person from enjoying life, it is time to seek professional assistance. A doctor or mental health specialist can determine if you have an anxiety disorder and recommend treatment.To diagnose anxiety disorders, a medical doctor will conduct an examination and ask questions about your symptoms. They will be looking for information on when the anxiety symptoms began, how long they have lasted and how severe they have become. A doctor may be able to inquire about whether your symptoms have impacted your daily routine. Many mental health issues, such as depression or post-traumatic disorders, occur in conjunction with anxiety disorders. A specialist may ask about any other psychological issues that you have experienced.There isn’t a single test that can be used to diagnose anxiety. A medical professional can rule out other causes of anxiety by performing tests for blood or urine and asking about your family history. Mental health professionals may also employ questionnaires and standard tests to evaluate your anxiety and make a diagnosis.The majority of people with anxiety disorders benefit from a combination therapy that includes psychotherapy or “talk therapy” and medications. Talk therapy is a form of treatment called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches you new ways to think and react so that you are less anxious. The use of medications like antianxiety, beta-blockers and certain antidepressants can help you manage your symptoms.An anxiety disorder is characterised by a persistent anxiety, tension in the muscles and a difficult time concentration. People might also experience symptoms such as breathlessness, trembling, and dizziness. A person who has anxiety disorders may avoid activities or situations that cause anxiety. anxiety coping mechanisms of avoidance is frustrating and can lead to problems like poor work performance or relationships.Children’s anxiety is normal, but they typically overcome it as they develop. People who have anxiety symptoms in adulthood are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder.Anxiety disorders can be treated but you need to be patient and willing to seek assistance. It takes time to find the right combination of treatments that will be effective for you. The reward is a healthier, satisfying life. It is crucial to seek treatment early, because anxiety can get worse in time if not addressed. With the right treatment and treatment, you will be able to overcome this condition. For more information on how to find the best treatment for you, go to our Anxiety Resources page.