Anxiety is a perfectly healthy and normal feeling that serves an important function – it heightens our awareness, enhances our focus on specific tasks, and prepares us to act quickly, if necessary. Almost everyone has experienced anxiety. Everyday situations that induce anxiety in most people are public speaking, a first date, a job interview, or taking a test. However, when anxiety interferes with daily activities and is excessive, persistent, and out of proportion to the situation, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. If you are seeking anxiety treatment in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, Connections Wellness Group can help.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in the United States, affecting 40 million adults over the age of 18. Mental health treatment programs have helped millions of Americans manage or overcome anxiety disorders. Connections Wellness Group offers anxiety treatment in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas – call 940.360.4245 for more information or to get started with mental health treatment.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are many different types of anxiety disorders, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common anxiety disorders are:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, uncontrollable worry about everyday life events for no apparent reason.
- Panic Disorder: Recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, and dizziness.
- Agoraphobia: Intense fear of being in situations from which escape may be difficult or impossible or where help would not be available if needed. For example, crowds, waiting in line, using public restrooms, or in extreme cases, even leaving home.
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Intense fear of being embarrassed or judged by others in social situations.
- Specific Phobias: Intense fear of a specific object or situation, such as flying, heights, animals, or blood.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions) in an attempt to relieve anxiety.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts related to a traumatic event.
Anxiety disorders can significantly impact every area of life – work, school, relationships, and social activities. Many people with anxiety disorders also suffer from depression, eating disorders, or substance abuse.
Treatment Options for Anxiety Disorders
There are many effective treatments for anxiety disorders. The most common are:
Psychotherapy
Also called “talk therapy,” this is a crucial part of treatment for most anxiety disorders. It can be conducted one-on-one, in a group, or family setting, and can last for a few sessions or many years, depending on the severity of the disorder and the response to treatment. The goals of psychotherapy are to reduce symptoms, identify and correct negative thinking and behavior patterns, and develop healthy coping skills.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This type of psychotherapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thinking and behavior patterns. CBT has been shown to be particularly effective in treating anxiety disorders.
Medication
Anti-anxiety medications, called “anxiolytics,” can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety. These medications are typically used short-term, as they can have side effects and be addictive. Some examples of commonly prescribed anxiety medications are:
- Benzodiazepines: such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan)
- Buspirone: also called “Buspar”
- Antidepressants: such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil)
Complementary and Alternative Therapies
These treatments are used in addition to, or instead of, traditional medical treatment. Examples of these therapies include:
- Relaxation techniques: such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga
- Herbal supplements: such as kava or valerian root
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
Contact Connections Wellness Group for Outpatient Anxiety Treatment
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, help is available. Connections Wellness Group in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas aims to connect you to meaningful, life-improving solutions which promote positive change for your overall wellness without a catch. Additionally, we provide convenient care that is cost-effective, accessible, and holistically enriching without compromise.
With convenient tele-health services and payment options that include most major insurance providers, we are ready to answer your questions and help you heal. Call 940.360.4245 or contact us online today.