Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in the nation, generally presents as unrelenting worries and can progress to episodic physical anxiety symptoms amongst other manifestation. If you struggle with anxiety symptoms that disrupts your life, call the office in Fairfax, Virginia, or book online today.

When do I need help for anxiety?

You can't avoid anxiety. Whenever you feel worried, stressed, or fearful, your brain automatically reacts and sends hormones streaming through your body.

The hormones energize your body, slowing down some systems and ramping up others like your heart rate. After your threatening or stressful event ends, your hormones go back to normal, and your anxiety should disappear.

Problems begin when anxiety doesn't improve, and your body stays overly alert even when you don't face an immediate threat. You should consider seeking help when anxiety and worry become a frequent or constant presence, or you change your daily life to avoid places and people that trigger anxiety.

Are there different types of anxiety?

You may develop one of several anxiety disorders. Four of the most common include:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

GAD causes daily worry and fears over normal life issues, such as your health, job, children, and finances.

Social anxiety disorder

People with this disorder feel anxious and self-conscious when they meet new people or must perform in front of others, such as giving a report at school or work.

Specific phobias

A phobia is a fear of a specific situation, activity, or thing, such as flying or spiders.

Separation anxiety disorder

You may think of separation anxiety as a problem affecting young children, but it can develop in people of all ages. The anxiety becomes overwhelming when you fear something will happen to you or your family if you’re apart.

What symptoms accompany anxiety?

Anxiety causes emotional and physical symptoms, including:

• Fear
• Irritability
• Nervousness
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Stomachaches
• Muscle aches
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fast or pounding heartbeat

Severe anxiety can lead to a panic attack, causing symptoms like chest pain and difficulty breathing.

How is anxiety treated?

Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group primarily treats anxiety with psychotherapy and medications when needed. Antidepressants may help with stress and anxiety even if you're not depressed. Anti-anxiety medications ease anxiety, fear, and panic attacks, but your provider usually prescribes them for a short time.

Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group provides treatment using different therapies that help you overcome anxiety. Therapy always targets your specific anxieties, so the approach your therapist uses depends on your goals.

If you need help with overwhelming anxiety, call Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group or book an appointment online today.