ANXIETY

What is Anxiety ?

Anxiety is the body's natural reaction to stress, leading to increased physiological activities like heart rate and breathing, helping to prepare the body for demanding situations. It's common to feel anxious in stressful circumstances such as before an interview or starting school. While occasional anxiety is normal, persistent and overwhelming anxiety can significantly disrupt physical and mental health.

Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety

A range of symptoms can result from anxiety, including:
- Persistent headaches due to ongoing worry.
- Trouble concentrating or staying focused.
- Feeling irritated or agitated without much reason.
- Upset stomach or digestive issues.
- Tiredness or exhaustion without sufficient sleep.
- Sore muscles or unexplained body aches.
- Hypertension, especially during anxious moments.
- Heart racing as if in preparation for a high-stress situation.
- Difficulty breathing, particularly during an anxiety attack.
- Reduced sexual desire.
- Challenges in focusing your thoughts clearly.
- Symptoms of panic, like chest discomfort or dizziness.
- Increased likelihood of depression.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety becomes a disorder when it's intense and long-lasting, disrupting daily life for more than six months. People with these disorders may avoid daily activities and situations they fear, leading to a reduced quality of life. Anyone can experience anxiety disorders, but they manifest in various forms such as generalized anxiety, panic disorders, or social anxiety, each with unique impacts on daily living.

Causes

The exact causes of anxiety disorders are unclear, but they're thought to be a mix of genetic predispositions and environmental influences like stress or relationship troubles. Studies suggest that a family history of anxiety can increase one's chances of developing similar issues. Brain chemistry changes due to medication, illness, or substance withdrawal may also trigger anxiety symptoms.

Treatment for Anxiety Disorders

We offer personalized treatment plans for anxiety disorders. These plans may include medication, psychotherapy, and changes in behavior. Working in partnership with psychiatrists, patients go through a trial-and-error process to find the right treatment. Therapies like CBT and DBT, along with relaxation techniques and management skills training, are part of the comprehensive approach to help patients cope and recover from anxiety.