Generalized Anxiety Disorder Diagnosis & Treatment
Are you feeling nervous, stressed or anxious?
You are not alone. Over 40 million people suffer from anxiety. We can understand, struggling with anxiety may feel overwhelming and isolating. It often manifests as a constant worry, racing thoughts, or physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat. For many, anxiety is not just a passing feeling, it may become persistent and affect daily life, or even personal well-being. If anxiety lasts for 6 months it may be a sign of Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Include:
Sometimes anxiety manifests as a series of panic attacks. If you have surges of Recurrent, unexpected anxiety, intense fear, or discomfort it could be a panic attack. Panic attacks are accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, shaking, heart pounding, or difficulty breathing. If you have a month of persistent concern about having more attacks or worry about the consequences of these attacks it could be Panic Disorder.
Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Include:
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Anxiety
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Feeling restless or on edge
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Low energy (fatigue)
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Poor focus
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Irritability
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Muscle tension
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Difficulty sleeping
Symptoms of Panic Disorder:
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Panic attacks that reach a peak within minutes and during which time 4 or more of the following symptoms are present:
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Heart pounding or accelerated heart rate
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Sweating
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Shaking
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Shortness of breath
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Feelings of choking
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Chest pain or discomfort
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Nausea
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Dizziness
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Chills
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Numbness or tingling sensations
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Fear of losing control or Dying
What To Expect as a Patient - And What Makes Our Anxiety Treatments So Effective?
Treating Anxiety Disorder and Panic Attacks
The first step toward getting treatment for anxiety is acknowledging that you have it. Some find it difficult to admit, especially when society often places pressure on people to "push through" challenges on their own. However, seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it is a brave choice that can help you feel calmer.
There are several approaches to treatment. In some cases, one of the best forms of treatment is to see a psychiatrist for anxiety. At Brightland Health, we will go through the process with you towards finding the right medication and plan to get you where you want to be, allowing you feel better, function better, and worry less. Your psychiatrist can help with anxiety by prescribing certain medications:
Medications to Treat Anxiety and Panic Attacks Include:
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Antidepressants
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Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
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Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
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Anti-anxiety medications
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Benzodiazepines (often a short-term solution)
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Non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics
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Beta blockers
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While these medications don’t necessarily "cure" anxiety, they can make it more manageable. Be patient, it is possibly a bit of trial and error because what works for one may not work for another.
In addition to seeing a psychiatrist for anxiety, you may also want to see a therapist for help with anxiety. Therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has proven effective for many people. It may help you understand the patterns in your thoughts and behaviors that fuel anxiety and you may learn to challenge those thoughts. Our therapists will provide a safe space to explore your fears and worries with the support you deserve.
Lifestyle changes can also play a role in treating anxiety. Getting regular exercise and practicing good sleep hygiene, can help regulate stress. Mindfulness can help you feel more grounded. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can also reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety.
The process of healing is often gradual, and it is important to be patient with yourself. Recovering from anxiety takes time, and setbacks may occur. We support you and will listen to your concerns. Whether it is medication or therapy or lifestyle changes, you can regain control over your life and develop healthy ways to cope with stress. At Brightland Health we will help carry you on your journey towards a brighter future.
Book online or Call 312-796-7121 today