Tailored Treatment Plan for Anxiety

If you experience nervousness, worry, fear, or restlessness on a routine basis, it may be time to talk to a professional about anxiety treatment. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 40 million adults in the United States, or around 19% of the population, have some type of anxiety disorder. This widespread issue can significantly minimize your quality of life and can also impact your physical health and wellness, social connections, career, finances, and more. While there is no cure for an anxiety disorder, there are numerous options to help you take control of your symptoms and enjoy your life again.

Developing an anxiety treatment plan

While the underlying cause of anxiety can be genetic, environmental, or trauma-based, there are many factors that can make the issue better or worse. These will vary from person to person, but working with a professional can help you create a treatment plan that meets your individual needs while addressing your anxiety head on. Here are some common aspects of a healthy program.

Therapy

Seeing a professional and discussing your anxiety symptoms can be tremendously helpful. Research has shown that simply talking out loud about a difficult thought, feeling, or experience can be cathartic, especially when it is done in a safe, neutral space. A therapist can also help you see these events in a different light. Therapists are trained to give patients the tools and ideas they need to become better problem-solvers and to develop practical tactics for managing difficult thoughts or feelings in the future. Group therapy can also be very beneficial by giving people the support and understanding they need while minimizing isolation, which can make anxiety much worse.

Relaxation exercises

Many people with anxiety disorders sometimes experience episodes known as panic attacks. Symptoms may include:

• Shaking.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Sweating.
• Nausea.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Sudden or intense fear.

When anxiety symptoms arise or panic sets in, relaxation techniques can help you feel more grounded while teaching your body to calm itself. Some can even help you override your autonomic nervous system, which controls how your body responds to anxiety and fear. Meditation, breathing exercises, and stretching can all help.

Lifestyle changes

Certain dietary and lifestyle choices can make anxiety worse. Some of the worst culprits include caffeine, alcohol, high amounts of sugar, and processed foods. Eating a nutritious diet, getting plenty of sleep, reducing stressors, and exercising on a routine basis can all improve symptoms.

Medication

While some people are able to manage their anxiety without medication, others need it to help control the chemical imbalances in the body that may trigger symptoms. A medical professional can help you decide if medication should be part of your treatment plan. Always follow the dosage instructions and never stop taking anxiety medication without discussing it with your doctor or therapist first.