Almost everyone experiences a certain degree of anxiety at some point. However, an anxiety disorder is a serious mental health condition where anxiety gets out of control and interferes with one's ability to function daily and enjoy life. Perhaps you worry that you or a loved one struggles with an anxiety disorder and are unsure what to do. If so, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about anxiety disorders to guide those struggling.
Not all anxiety is bad; we need a certain amount to keep us safe in potentially dangerous situations. However, an anxiety disorder goes beyond this to the point where feelings of fear, dread, and panic interfere with our health and ability to function. Here is an overview of the most common anxiety disorders and their defining characteristics:
The causes of these disorders are complex and not entirely known. They often appear to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Anxiety disorders often run in families and can involve an imbalance in brain chemicals. In addition, traumatic or stressful life experiences appear to trigger anxiety disorders in those predisposed to them.
Substance overuse can exacerbate these disorders. Also, those exposed to trauma as children are at higher risk for developing an anxiety disorder. It is also important to note that certain physical illnesses can exhibit symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. This is why a diagnosis from a medical professional is important.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and one of the main types of professionals qualified to diagnose and treat these disorders. A psychiatrist conducts a physical and psychological exam and examines a patient's health and personal history. The doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, duration, and what they feel may be causing them. Part of this exam is intended to rule out any physical causes of symptoms. Therefore, the psychiatrist may order tests to rule these causes out.
Treatment is tailored to the individual and typically involves the use of medication and talk therapy. The type of medication recommended depends on the nature and type of the patient's anxiety disorder and individual health circumstances. It may take some time for the doctor and patient to find the right medication and get the dosage right. How well the patient tolerates any side effects are also important to consider.
There are several forms of talk therapy that can be helpful. Cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy are often recommended for those with anxiety. These therapies can help patients develop strategies for coping with and overcoming their anxiety.
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It is important that you know that anxiety symptoms are not feelings you can ignore and are not likely to go away on their own. You are experiencing a mental health disorder, and there is help. We can help you overcome an anxiety disorder with the right combination of treatments.
Request an appointment or call Future Psych Ketamine Clinics at 843-788-9718 for an appointment in our Myrtle Beach office.
Anxiety disorders are mental illnesses that cause excessive, uncontrollable worry. They are the most common mental illnesses in the United States, affecting nearly 40 million people. Anxiety disorders can begin at any age and last for a lifetime if left untreated. It can be difficult for loved ones to understand what someone with anxiety is…
Living with an anxiety disorder is challenging, especially when you do not have the tools to manage it. Anxiety, in these cases, is more than a passing feeling; it can be all-consuming and lead to isolation. The longer it is left untreated, the more severe the condition can become. If you are looking for relief…
office today.Request an appointment or call Future Psych Ketamine Clinics at 843-788-9718 for an appointment in our Myrtle Beach office.