Anxiety is a common mental health disorder characterized by persistent, excessive worry and fear about everyday situations. It is the most prevalent mental illness in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults each year.
Anxiety comes in many forms, but generally involves both psychological and physiological symptoms. The main psychological symptoms include:
- Excessive or unrealistic worrying
- Feeling agitated or on edge
- Irritability
Common physiological symptoms include:
- Racing heartbeat
- Sweating
- Trembling or muscle twitches
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, separation anxiety, and more. Each has its own specific triggers and symptoms. For example, social anxiety involves intense fear of social situations, while panic disorder involves seemingly random bouts of panic attacks.
While anxiety is a normal adaptive response to perceived threats, in some cases it can become severely debilitating.
Anxiety disorders often interfere with daily living, work, school, and relationships. Without treatment, symptoms tend to worsen over time.
Fortunately, anxiety disorders are among the most treatable mental illnesses. The most common and effective treatments include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): helps identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more realistic, positive thoughts
- Exposure therapy: gradually exposes you to feared situations in a safe, controlled way
- Medications: anti-anxiety meds and antidepressants help regulate brain chemistry
Making lifestyle changes can also help manage anxiety symptoms. Getting regular exercise, enough sleep, reducing alcohol and caffeine, practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation, and joining a support group are all proven ways to help relieve anxiety naturally.
The first step is recognizing anxiety symptoms and seeking help from a mental health professional at Restore Health Clinic. They can thoroughly assess your symptoms, diagnose any underlying disorders, and create a customized treatment plan to help you regain control. With the right treatment and self-care, most people with anxiety disorder lead productive, fulfilling lives.