Anxiety Disorders: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders The symptoms of anxiety disorders may be similar to those of other medical conditions, so your doctor will start with a physical exam and asking about your symptoms. There are no tests in the lab that can diagnose anxiety disorders, however your doctor may perform some tests to rule out other causes. Psychotherapy is the first line of treatment for anxiety disorders. It includes cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure prevention, as well as other techniques like mindfulness and stress management. Diagnosis Talk to a medical professional if you suspect that you may have an anxiety disorder. They'll want to know about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They may ask for the family history of mental health issues or other health conditions. You may need to undergo a series of assessments, including physical exams and medical tests in order to rule out other causes for your symptoms such as heart conditions or thyroid diseases. Anxiety disorders are defined by a high level of anxiety, fear and apprehension that interfere with everyday activities. These aren't normal and they don't go away on their own. The good news is that there are treatment options available. A licensed clinical professional is able diagnose an anxiety disorder by using a mental assessment which is also known as an evaluation of the psychological. They will use standardized assessments as well as their own judgement to determine if you have an anxiety disorder. They might recommend a variety of treatments, such as psychotherapy (or “talk therapy”) and medication. Psychotherapy can help you learn new ways of thinking and acting to reduce your symptoms. It can teach you to recognize your triggers and develop strategies for dealing with them. Some of your symptoms can be alleviated with medication like beta-blockers and anti-anxiety medications used to treat heart conditions. If your symptoms are severe you should not delay seeking treatment. If you put off seeking treatment, it is harder to treat anxiety disorders. It is essential to begin treatment immediately if you suspect you are suffering from anxiety, especially if it is affecting your work, school or relationships. Anxiety disorders can be identified by a primary healthcare doctor or a mental healthcare specialist. During a mental evaluation they will examine for specific symptoms of anxiety, for instance anxiety or feeling tired easily. They also check for difficulty concentrating or concentrating, muscle tension, or feeling like you are on edge. They will also inquire about your worries and how long they've lasted and how intensely you feel them. You will also be asked to fill out an easy questionnaire about anxiety. They may also perform tests in the laboratory, such as blood or urinary tests to rule out any other health issues. Treatment Consult your doctor if you are worried about the symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and conduct tests to find out whether your symptoms are linked to a medical condition. If not, he or she will refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist or any other mental health specialist. Therapy is the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders. Different techniques for treating anxiety have developed in the past, ranging from psychoanalytic techniques to the latest cognitive behavioral therapies. Based on your needs the therapy could be performed as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with medications. Some anxiety disorders can be treated with medication. Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam or diazepam are utilized to treat anxiety disorders like panic such as generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. Antidepressants like fluoxetine, citropram, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can also help with anxiety disorders. Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine and clomipramine can be prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. Some people have trouble finding a psychiatrist who can prescribe them medication to manage their anxiety. These medicines are safe, and can improve your quality of life when used correctly. To avoid any adverse side negative effects, you'll need collaborate closely with your doctor to find the most effective medication for you. Your provider will show you how to control anxiety and promote healthy living. This includes a balanced diet and exercise that release the natural brain chemicals that reduce stress. Learning relaxation techniques and ensuring you get enough sleep can also be helpful. Joining a support group in person or online may be beneficial. Certain people might benefit from other treatments, such as acupuncture and massage. These techniques may be helpful for those suffering from GAD or PTSD. Some people who have anxiety issues could be at a higher risk of developing certain health conditions like hyperthyroidism or heart disease. Other risk factors are being shy in your childhood or having been through traumatic events or having an ancestry of depression or anxiety in your family. Drugs that are illegal or alcohol can also increase your anxiety risk and may interfere with medications. Prevention While the root cause of anxiety disorders remains unknown there are certain factors that can increase an individual's risk. This includes: having blood relatives with anxiety disorders and having other mental health conditions like depression; having an event that is stressful in life like divorce, job loss or death; abuse of drugs or exposure to war or violence. Early intervention is crucial in order to prevent the signs of anxiety disorders can become more severe in time if not treated. If you suspect you may have anxiety disorder, see your doctor for an medical history and physical exam. They may order lab tests to rule out other health conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or heart disease. If they are unable to identify a medical cause for your symptoms, then they might refer you to an therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Then, you need to work with your health professional to devise a treatment program. This could include medication, psychotherapy, or a diet plan. The use of medication can ease your symptoms and enhance the quality of your life. Some people may benefit by joining a support group to share their struggles and triumphs with others, but this isn't a substitute for treatment. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders can assist you take preventative measures. Keep track of your symptoms, and look for patterns. If your worries about family members or money seem to trigger anxiety, you might think about consulting with counsellors. Journaling or keeping a mental diary, is another effective way to identify and manage your emotions. You should also reduce the amount of alcohol and caffeine you consume since they can cause anxiety. Try meditation and other stress-reduction methods, such as yoga or visualisation. Regular exercise can improve your mood and let you relax. Signs and symptoms Anxiety disorders can bring on a range of different symptoms. Some of them may be hard to recognize. They could include a feeling of restlessness or jitteriness, muscle tension and sleep problems, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and a rapid heartbeat or sweaty hands. People suffering from anxiety disorder typically have a lot of concerns about everyday things such as work and family. They may also be concerned about specific occasions, like an accident in the car or an interview. Contacting a healthcare professional is the first step to seeking help. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, and how long they have been present for. They'll also conduct a physical examination and check your overall health. They might order tests for labs or other scans, however they aren't usually able to help identify an anxiety disorder. The provider will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association, to assist them in making a diagnosis. Treatments can reduce anxiety disorders in a variety of ways. Psychotherapy and medications are the most important treatments. Psychotherapy can teach you how to change your thoughts and behavior patterns that cause anxiety. It can also help you learn strategies to manage stress, and improve your mood. Medicines can help ease anxiety disorder symptoms such as shaking and rapid heartbeat. They could be antidepressants such as SSRIs (escitalopram Lexapro, escitalopram and fluoxetine) or SNRIs (duloxetine, Cymbalta and venlafaxine) or other kinds of medications specifically designed to combat anxiety. You might need to try more than one type of medication before you can find the one that works best for you. Some conditions, such as thyroid problems or heart disease can cause symptoms similar to those that occur in anxiety disorders. If you're diagnosed with anxiety disorder, your physician will examine for these and other health problems. You can lower your risk of developing anxiety disorders by eating a balanced diet, taking enough rest and employing stress management techniques. Walking or exercising regularly can help some people with anxiety disorder feel better because it releases brain chemicals that decrease stress. Participating in a self-help group or joining a support network can help you share your feelings and connect with others.