What is Anxiety Disorder:
An Anxiety Disorder can be a crippling condition that interferes with our everyday ability to perform simple tasks and activities.
While some anxiety is expected in situations such as taking a test, going for a job interview, meeting new people, and being in unfamiliar places, anxiety disorder takes it to the extreme. Anxiety disorder causes extreme worry or fear when there is no real danger. If your worry or anxiety interferes with your ability to perform daily tasks such as performing at work or school, socializing with friends, grocery shopping or going outdoors, you may have an anxiety disorder. There are several types of Anxiety Disorder and they include Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and various phobias.
Treatment:
Anxiety can be treated with medication and/or psychotherapy.
Each person is different and should receive treatment appropriate for their symptoms. If medications are determined to be appropriate, your provider may choose one that slows down the nervous system which allows you to relax both physically and mentally. Other medications available help your brain increase serotonin which enable better communication between brain cells resulting in decreased anxiety. Therapy uses techniques such Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and exposure therapy to help you change how you allow stress to affect you. Things that can be done at home include such things as meditation, practicing mindfulness, getting enough sleep and limiting caffeine. Anxiety is treatable and manageable and starts with you.
