What Are Anxiety Disorders?
People suffering from anxiety disorders have anxiety and fears that are not related to a particular situation or in the case of generalized anxiety disorder, over various situations. They also have difficulty managing these symptoms.
The symptoms of anxiety disorders manifest in childhood. The reason for this is not known however, genetics and life events may be a factor.
Symptoms
Everyone experiences anxiety every now and then constant worry and fear that is difficult to control and disrupts your daily routine could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders may include generalized anxiety (GAD) as well as panic, obsessive compulsive disorder and specific phobias.
GAD is characterized as overwhelming and uncontrollable anxiety. They may have trouble concentrating and may be constantly worried about their health, finances or work. Panic disorder is defined as intense, brief episodes of discomfort and fear that may occur without warning. Symptoms include chest pain or palpitations, breathing issues or dizziness. People who suffer from phobias have an aversion to certain objects or situations, or even places. Examples include heights, spiders, and enclosed spaces. People with OCD have repetitive, compulsive behaviours as a way of coping with their anxieties and reducing feelings of tension or discomfort. Post-traumatic stress disorder is characterised by a struggle to let go of frightening, disturbing memories. This can trigger flashbacks and nightmares.
The causes of anxiety disorders haven't been fully understood. However they are likely to be a result of a combination of factors. There is evidence that suggests that genetics and their environment are both significant. Generalized anxiety disorder, like, tends to run through families. Traumatic or stressful childhood experiences can also increase the likelihood of developing anxiety disorders. People suffering from chronic medical conditions and those who abuse alcohol or other drugs are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder.
Most anxiety disorders respond well when treated. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, as well as medication can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people learn new ways of thinking and reacting that will make them feel less anxious. Anti-anxiety medications and beta-blockers used to treat high pressure can reduce physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or shaking. A doctor can help determine the right medications and dosages for each individual. Early treatment can make
anxiety disorder help near me problems less of a problem.
Diagnosis
Most people have anxiety at certain points, for instance prior to presenting a speech or taking a test. When those feelings are persistent and uncontrollable, they disrupt your daily life, it may be an indication that you suffer from an anxiety disorder.
A mental health specialist will determine whether you suffer from anxiety disorders by using the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will inquire about your symptoms, the time they started, how long they have lasted, whether they are getting worse, and how they impact your life. They will also test for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or a thyroid condition.
Different anxiety disorders have different symptoms. Your specialist will determine the type of anxiety disorder causing you problems and create a plan for treatment. This could involve psychotherapy, medication or both.
Certain people are more prone to developing anxiety disorders than others. This includes people with an ancestral history of anxiety or other mental health issues and children who are exposed to or witness traumatic events, and those who suffer from medical conditions, such as systemic lupus and rheumatoid arthritis or sleep apnea. Anxiety is more likely occur in conjunction with other physiological or mental diseases, like depression or cardiovascular disease.
People with anxiety disorders often have difficulty admitting that they are suffering from anxiety or seeking treatment. This could be due to stigmatization or a lack of understanding that anxiety disorder is an illness that can be treated or a lack of access.
Anxiety disorders can be difficult to treat, but with the right treatment, many people get better. Talk with your doctor or therapist about the strategies that can help you cope and adhere to your treatment plan. Follow the prescribed medication and make sure you take part in all therapy sessions. Avoid alcohol and nicotine because they can cause anxiety symptoms. Be honest with your family and friends about your illness, and find a community of people who share similar conditions. This will help you deal with the issue and share advice. Include your loved ones in the treatment process and break the cycle by spending more time engaged in activities you enjoy such as sports or hobbies.
Treatment
Certain types of anxiety disorders can be treated with psychotherapy, medication or other complementary health practices. The medications used to treat anxiety include antidepressants as well as benzodiazepines. Some people may require a range of drugs before they can find one that is effective. Caffeine, certain over-the-counter and prescription drugs, illegal substances, and herbal supplements may increase anxiety symptoms or interact with prescription medications. People should always discuss any changes to their drug use with a doctor.
A combination of therapy and medication is often the best approach to manage an
anxiety disorder remedies disorder. Therapy can help you cope with your symptoms and change your negative beliefs and thoughts that fuel anxiety. Therapy can also help you practice relaxation and stress-reducing techniques, such as deep muscle relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is among the most effective treatments for anxiety. It helps you learn to think and behave in a way that decreases anxiety. It can also involve exposure therapy, which entails gradually confronting the things that cause anxiety. It may also include complementary approaches to health like acupuncture and mindfulness.
If you have severe anxiety, your doctor might prescribe a short course of benzodiazepines that are fast-acting to help ease your anxiety. If you are expressing suicidal thoughts or feelings, you should be evaluated by the emergency department.
The use of medication can ease the symptoms of anxiety disorders, however they're not the cure. They cannot eliminate the underlying causes of your symptoms, and they must be used regularly. Some of the most effective treatments for
anxiety disorder gad disorders mix psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy such as cognitive behavior therapy or exposure therapy.
You can lower anxiety symptoms by exercising regularly, eating healthy foods and drinking moderately. A good night's sleep and staying away from nicotine can help. It is important to maintain social connections and avoid isolation as loneliness can trigger anxiety symptoms. You can find a therapist in your area by searching the ADAA's Find-a-Therapist database. You can also visit BetterHelp, an online therapy platform which matches you with a licensed therapist for as little as $49 per session.
Prevention
As humans we are programmed to feel anxiety and fear in certain situations. Our bodies train us to defend ourselves against or escape from a threat. If these feelings persist and become a problem with our daily lives and become a source of anxiety, they are classified as disorders. Anxiety symptoms can be triggered by a myriad of causes such as genetics, stress, environment trauma, and even alcohol use.
Treatment is available for a lot of sufferers of anxiety disorders.
