about
ANXIETY
Anxiety Disorders are the most common mental disorders in the USA
Over 40 million adults experience an anxiety disorder each year
There are many different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, and more
Anxiety disorders can develop for a number of reasons, including genetics, brain chemistry, and life events
According to the WHO, 1 in 13 people around the world suffer from anxiety
Only about 1/3 of those suffering receive treatment
About 8% of children and teenagers experience an anxiety disorder
Those suffering from anxiety disorders are not alone
Understanding Anxiety
Symptoms
PHYSICAL
Cold or sweaty hands
Dry mouth
Heart palpitations
Nausea
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
MENTAL
Feeling panic, fear and uneasiness
Nightmares
Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences
BEHAVIORAL
Inability to be still and calm
Ritualistic behaviors such as washing hands repeatedly
Trouble sleeping
Treatment Options
Psychotherapy:
Psychotherapy is also called "talk therapy" and means psychological counseling.
Typical psychotherapy involves working with a professional therapist, nurse practitioner, psychologist or psychiatrist to reduce your anxiety symptoms.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. This is a short term treatment that teaches patients skills on how to cope with any symptoms, and results in the return to every day activities including the ones that were avoided due to the anxiety.
Medication:
Medication may be prescribed to patients with anxiety disorders in order to relieve symptoms.
Anxiety medications include:
Certain antidepressants
Buspirone which is an anti-anxiety medication
Benzodiazepines, or beta blockers which are sedatives.
These medications are for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms and are not intended to be used long term.