Anxiety can range from something as simple as feeling restless or difficulty falling asleep, to something as debilitating as a full-blown panic attack when attempting to leave the house. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 31.1% of adults in the United States will deal an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. The difference between typical anxiety and an anxiety disorder is the inability to rid oneself of the anxiety or worsening of the anxiety with time. If anxiety is pervasive enough to affect your ability to do your job, get along with people, or perform daily activities, it may be time to talk to a professional.

Anxiety Disorders can present in many ways but can often be easily distinguished by a mental health professional. Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, is a constant state of anxiety or worry, that has no obvious identifiable cause. Panic Disorder, better known as panic attacks, are periods of intense fear or anxiety that come on suddenly and are often accompanied by intense physiological symptoms. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is defined by the presence of obsessions, intrusive and often irrational thoughts, and compulsions, reoccurring and intrusive behaviors. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur after someone experiences or witnesses an event that is considered traumatic by the individual.

Psychotherapy is the most common treatment method for all types of anxiety disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) challenge and confront the anxious thoughts and regulate thoughts and emotions. Exposure Therapy can also be used to help face fears or phobias, and quell the anxiety or panic surrounding them. In conjunction with therapy, Anti-Anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines, or Anti-Depressant medications such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to assist with pervasive or overwhelming anxiety.

If you can’t figure it out on your own, there are professionals (like us) to help guide you. You are still strong and valuable if you ask for help.