Anxiety Disorders
An example of a mental health condition is an anxiety disorder. It is difficult to get through your day when you are anxious. Feelings of anxiety, panic, and fear, as well as sweating and a rapid heartbeat, are symptoms. Medication, hypnotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy are three options for treatment. The best treatment plan for you can be created by your healthcare provider.
What Is An Anxiety Disorder?
As psychologists and hypnotherapists report an umbrella term for a group of mental health conditions characterized by extreme fear or worry is an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults aged 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population annually, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA).1 The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 in 13 people worldwide experience anxiety. WHO reports that tension problems are the most well-known mental issues overall with a summed-up uneasiness jumble (Stray) besting the rundown followed by unambiguous fear, significant burdensome issue, and social phobia.² In this 2017 review, scientists gauge that 792 million individuals live with a psychological wellness problem — somewhat more than one of every 10 individuals universally (10.7%).
Anxiety disorders affected the most people, or 284 million people, which is a staggering 4 percent of the population.
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
Psychologist says the feeling of anxiety varies from person to person. Feelings can range from stomach butterflies to heart racing. You might think there is a disconnect between your mind and body and that you are out of control.
You might be worried and afraid all over, or you might be afraid of a specific place or thing. You may experience a panic attack in some cases.
Anxiety symptoms from a trusted source can include:
Irritability
Unexplained aches and pains
Anxious thoughts or beliefs that are difficult to control
Restlessness
Trouble concentrating
Difficulty falling asleep
Fatigue
Your anxiety symptoms may be different from those of others. Understanding the various manifestations of anxiety is therefore critical. Learn about the many different kinds of symptoms that anxiety can cause.
How does medication treat anxiety disorders?
Anxiety disorders cannot be treated with medication. However, they can help you function better and alleviate symptoms. Common medications for anxiety disorders are:
Your anxiety, panic, and worry may be reduced by taking anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines. They get the job done quickly, but you can get used to them. As a result, over time, they lose effectiveness. Anti-anxiety medication may be prescribed by your psychologist doctor for a short time and then tapered off, or an antidepressant may be added to the mix.
Anxiety disorders may benefit from taking antidepressants as well. They change how certain chemicals are used by your brain to make you feel better and less stressed. Be patient because it may take some time for antidepressants to work. Talk to your psychologist doctor first if you think you're ready to stop taking antidepressants.
Some of the physical signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders can be helped by beta-blockers, which are typically prescribed for high blood pressure. They can alleviate shaking, trembling, and rapid heartbeat.
Together with you, your healthcare provider will determine the best medication combination and dosage. Change the dose only after consulting your psychologist. They'll keep an eye on you to make sure the drugs are working and don't cause side effects.
How does psychotherapy treat anxiety disorders?
Counseling or psychotherapy can help you deal with how you feel about the illness. Strategies for better understanding and managing the disorder are discussed by a mental health professional psychologist. Some methods include:
The most widely used form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT for anxiety teaches you to identify thought and behavior patterns that cause negative emotions. After that, you alter them.
The goal of exposure therapy is to address the anxiety disorder's underlying fears. It encourages you to participate in activities or situations you might have avoided. In addition to exposure therapy, your provider may employ imagery and relaxation techniques.
