Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Anxiety includes a group of mental health conditions that cause intense, persistent, and distressing fears and worries. There are several different types of anxiety disorder, including:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Separation anxiety disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Specific phobias

Each type of anxiety disorder has different triggers and can cause various symptoms. Some of the common anxiety symptoms include:

• Persistent and disproportionate worries and fears
• Feelings of impending doom
• Increased irritability
• Muscle tension
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Heart palpitations
• Trembling
• Sweating

Anxiety often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression and substance abuse disorders. When left untreated, your anxiety can worsen and become more disruptive to your life. But with treatment, you can learn to cope with your worries and regain your quality of life.

What causes anxiety?

Medical researchers haven’t identified a specific cause of anxiety, although there are several known risk factors. You’re more likely to develop an anxiety disorder if you have a family history of anxiety or other mental health issues. 

Your chances of developing anxiety are also higher if you experienced stressful or traumatic events during childhood or adolescence. For example, your risk of anxiety increases if you have a history of neglect, abuse, or poverty.

When should I talk to a doctor about anxiety?

Anxiety is a healthy emotion — it helps you stay safe. However, when your worries are persistent and distressing, it’s time to seek professional help. For example, if you avoid people or places that trigger your fears or have problems at work, contact the team at A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry.

How do you treat anxiety?

Your provider begins with a thorough exam and consultation to confirm your diagnosis. They might run some tests to see if an underlying health condition like a hyperactive thyroid is causing your symptoms. 

Once they understand your needs, they create a customized, multidisciplinary treatment program. Your doctor often combines medication with lifestyle adjustments and therapy to help you cope with anxiety.

Your doctor works together with a group of talented psychologists and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) who provide personalized counseling services. They believe that a small, tight-knit group of professionals can provide the different types of care needed for anxiety. 

You don’t have to let anxiety take over your life. Call A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry, or schedule a consultation online today.