Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is an emotion that is characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure, according to the American Psychological Association (APA). However, it is important to distinguish the difference between feeling periodic anxiety and qualifying for an anxiety diagnosis. It is normal to experience some periodic anxiety, but if you are experiencing prolonged anxiousness, you should consult a mental health professional.

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While anxiety symptoms vary from person to person, some common anxiety symptoms are:

⦁ Difficulty controlling fears or worries
⦁ Gastrointestinal (GI) problems
⦁ Insomnia
⦁ Trouble concentrating on anything besides your current fear or worry
⦁ Panic attacks
⦁ Overthinking worst case scenarios
⦁ Trouble breathing when stressed

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If you or someone you love constantly experiences anxiety or worries excessively about daily events like work, driving, or social interactions, then you or they could have Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or another anxiety related mental health condition. Other types of anxiety disorders include:

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• Panic Disorder

• Social Anxiety Disorder

• Specific Phobias, such as Agoraphobia

• Separation Anxiety Disorder

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

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An anxiety disorder can be caused by environmental factors, genetics, medications, and even hormone imbalances. Individuals struggling with anxiety are at higher risk for a variety of other physical and mental health conditions as well, including:

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• Depression

• OCD

• Stress Ulcers

• Eating Disorders

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Anxiety Treatment Options

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The best way to treat and prevent anxiety is to seek professional help. Our physicians at Astra Behavioral Health work hand in hand with patients to build the best treatment plan for their individual needs. We recognize that while talk therapy and medication management can work wonders for some, there is no one size fits all solution. Because of this, when you meet with one of our board certified psychiatrist, they will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and discuss potential treatments in depth prior to working together to establish your own personalized treatment plan.

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