Anxiety is a common but often overwhelming experience that many of us face at different points in our lives. It’s important to remember that feeling anxious does not mean you are weak or alone. By exploring practical coping strategies and anxiety treatment options, you can find ways to gently navigate through anxious moments and cultivate a sense of calm and control in your daily life.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of worry or fear. It can happen to anyone at any time. Some people may have anxiety their whole lives, while others may develop it after a stressful event or as they get older.
The Mayo Clinic states that although experiencing occasional episodes of anxiety is a normal part of life, some people may find their anxiety significantly impacts their life, preventing them from carrying out their normal day-to-day activities. This is known as an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are a type of mental health condition that can cause frequent feelings of intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations.
Common Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own unique set of challenges. These include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Involves persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of daily life, often accompanied by physical symptoms like restlessness and fatigue.
- Panic Disorder: Characterized by repeated, sudden, and intense episodes of intense anxiety and fear or terror, known as panic attacks, which can include palpitations, sweating, and shortness of breath.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Causes intense fear in social situations, leading to avoidance and feelings of embarrassment.
- Phobias: Irrational fears about particular objects or situations, such as heights or spiders.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Involves recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that you feel driven to perform.
Living with an anxiety disorder can significantly impact daily life. This is where Abundance Health Care can help. We provide comprehensive healthcare services to patients age six and up. We appreciate that anxiety isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. We can help you navigate the challenges associated with anxiety, with compassionate care and expert guidance.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Recognizing the symptoms of anxiety is the first step towards managing it effectively. The condition can manifest in various ways, both physically and emotionally. Common physical symptoms include:
- A racing heart
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Stomachaches
- Muscle tension
- Panic attacks
Emotionally, anxiety can lead to:
- Feelings of restlessness
- Being on edge
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia
Feelings of anxiety and panic can be difficult to control, are often out of proportion to the actual danger, and can last a long time. If you have anxiety, you may avoid places or situations to prevent these feelings, which can have a negative impact on daily life.
Anxiety Treatment Options
According to the Cleveland Clinic, living with anxiety can make it challenging to navigate through your day-to-day activities. You might experience multiple symptoms such as overwhelming nervousness, coupled with sweating and muscle tension. However, it’s important to know that effective anxiety treatment is available and are customized to your specific needs. These can include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and change thoughts that cause anxiety. It teaches you new ways to cope with worries.
- Medications: Anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers can help manage anxiety symptoms and allow you to function better.
Everyone’s journey with anxiety is unique, and discovering what works best for you can be an empowering and healing process.
How GeneSight® Testing Can Help
When medication is necessary, the providers at Abundance Health Care will work with you to find the best medication with the least side effects. GeneSight® testing can be used to help determine the best medication for you. This cutting-edge pharmacogenomic test examines your genes to see how they affect your response to medications. It’s quick and non-invasive. Just a simple cheek swab, and results come back in two business days.
Tips for Managing Anxiety
Living with anxiety can be overwhelming. It’s important to remember that help is available to support you through these challenges. Your healthcare provider can work with you to develop strategies and resources to manage your anxiety and improve your well-being.
Here are some tips to help manage anxiety:
- Live a healthy lifestyle: Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can exacerbate symptoms. Get regular exercise, maintain a healthy diet, and ensure you get enough sleep.
- Relaxation training: This can help you feel less tense. Try techniques such as deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.
- Mindfulness: Being present in the moment helps you to focus and feel calm. Try meditation, guided imagery, or simply taking a walk and noticing your surroundings.
- Stress management: Explore ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, exercise, and hobbies.
- Support groups: Joining a support group, either in-person or online, can help you feel less alone. You can talk about your experiences and learn from others who have similar challenges.
- Do your research: Learning about the specific type of anxiety disorder you have can help you feel more in control. Involve family members and friends in understanding the disorder, as well, so they can support you.
- Involve your healthcare provider: Your healthcare provider is an essential partner in your journey to better mental health. If you ever feel that your current treatment plan isn’t working or you have questions or concerns about your medication, don’t hesitate to reach out. Proactive communication with your provider can ensure that your treatment is tailored to your evolving needs.
Navigating the journey with anxiety can be challenging, but remember that you do not have to do it alone. At Abundance Health Care, we are dedicated to providing the supportive and compassionate care you need. By understanding the various types of anxiety disorders and recognizing the symptoms, you can take proactive steps towards your mental well-being. Utilizing effective coping strategies and treatment options can greatly enhance your ability to manage anxiety.
Anxiety Treatment in El Paso County, CO
If anxiety is affecting your life, visit the compassionate providers at Abundance Health Care for expert care. We are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you have access to the care and resources you need. We will work with you to design a treatment plan that supports your journey to better mental health.
Family nurse practitioner Dr. Bruner-Hill is proud to offer high-quality, holistic, and evidence-based healthcare to men, women, and young adolescents within the greater area of El Paso County, CO, who are struggling with anxiety. She is happy to offer comprehensive mental health treatment for patients ages 15 and up.
To find out more about the mental health services offered at Abundance Health Care and to start your journey to better health, please call us today at at (720) 869-0547 or request an appointment. Remember, you are not alone. We are here to help you manage your anxiety and live a better life.
