Anxiety is a natural reaction to stressful situations or events and is often considered helpful in certain circumstances. The human anxiety response evolved to alert us to danger and assist us in preparing and paying attention to what may happen next. Feelings of anxiety can include nervousness, excessive worrying, and self-doubt.
While anxiety is a common experience that everyone has at some point in their lives, excessive amounts can lead to an anxiety disorder. For some people, anxiety can become an overwhelming and recurrent emotion that causes significant self-doubt and dread on a constant basis. If anxiety becomes uncontrollable, seeking support from a mental health professional may be necessary. At Puglisi Counseling, our team of trained therapists are experts in treating anxiety disorders, and we have a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who can prescribe medication when necessary to alleviate symptoms.
Anxiety disorders are common and affect over 30% of the adult population in the United States. These disorders involve intense feelings of dread or fear that are different from normal anxiousness. Symptoms of anxiety vary from person to person and can depend on factors such as personality and co-occurring mental health conditions.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
Anxiety disorders can also cause uncontrollable intrusive or obsessive thought patterns, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and frustration. Without treatment, prolonged anxiety symptoms can lead to the onset of a depressive disorder.
Symptoms of anxiety disorders are not just mental, but can also be physical, including:
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, it’s important to seek the support of a mental health professional. Treatment options can include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Anxiety is a complex condition that can present itself in various ways. Each individual’s experience with anxiety is unique, and there are many misconceptions surrounding the disorder. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
You can provide support by offering an open line of communication, listening actively, remaining patient, asking for suggestions on how to best support them, and validating their experience and emotions. By taking these steps, you can help individuals with anxiety feel heard, understood, and supported.
Anxiety is a natural response that our mind and body have to stress. It’s a feeling of fear or apprehension about something that may happen. This feeling is meant to protect us from harm. However, some people may experience anxiety daily at high levels, which can get worse over time.
Anxiety disorders develop due to a combination of biological and environmental factors. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders, while others may develop them after experiencing extremely stressful situations. Additionally, growing up with anxious parents or being exposed to traumatic events can increase the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder.
When someone experiences unresolved trauma, they may constantly feel on edge and hypervigilant. Anxiety becomes a way for the body and mind to anticipate danger and stay safe. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for anxiety disorders, such as therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Seeking professional help is an important step in managing anxiety disorders and improving quality of life. It’s important to remember that experiencing anxiety is common, and it’s okay to seek help when needed.
Living with an anxiety disorder can lead to a persistent state of fear and worry that can negatively impact various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, finances, and daily functioning. That’s why it’s crucial to seek professional help.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, it’s important to seek support. At Puglisi Counseling, we have licensed clinicians who specialize in different psychotherapy modalities that are effective in treating anxiety, as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who can provide medication-based treatment for anxiety.
Our team of specialized clinicians can work with you to overcome the struggles you may be facing due to anxiety. We’ll help you understand the cycle of worry and nervousness created by this disorder and develop strategies to relieve the negative symptoms. Through the therapeutic process, you’ll become aware of your anxiety triggers and learn how to engage in healthier behaviors to reduce symptoms.
Your therapist will guide you in changing negative thinking patterns to more adaptive thoughts, which will lead to more positive feelings and behaviors. With the right focus on treatment and active participation, clients can experience relief from anxiety disorders quickly.
Don’t let anxiety control your life any longer. We offer different treatment options for many anxiety disorders in Northeast Pennsylvania. Contact us today to find the freedom from fear that you deserve.
