Anxiety can affect us in many ways and at different times. It is the body’s natural response to stress. In stressful situations, it can boost our energy and focus so that we can operate under pressure. However, anxiety can also manifest in other situations. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, around 40 million people in the US experience an anxiety disorder annually. A combination of psychological, developmental, and environmental factors causes anxiety disorders. At Parinda Parikh MD PC, we believe these are common and treatable. Individuals who live with anxiety can lead normal, happy, and successful lives.
Everyday anxiety vs anxiety disorders:
Every day, anxiety is caused by stressful situations like paying bills, going to job interviews, embarrassing oneself in public, awkward social interactions, big exams, facing a fear, etc. Living with an anxiety disorder is different in that it is a persistent feeling that manifests itself without the need of a stressful situation or the stress caused by a situation does not match the threat that the situation poses. Someone with an anxiety disorder will avoid social situations, suffer from abrupt panic attacks, have an irrational fear of objects, places, or situations that impose no real threat, and struggle with recurring nightmares.
Types of anxiety disorders:
There are different types of anxiety disorders and different ways to treat them. Understanding the difference between them will help you or your loved ones identify and treat the condition. Listed are three of the most common anxiety disorders.
General anxiety disorder (GAD) is pretty common. It is a feeling of constant anxiety and stress about everyday activities. This feeling has been ever-present for over six months. Someone with this disorder feels like they have no control over their worry and trap themselves in an escalating cycle. Some symptoms include muscle tension, feeling easily tired, irritability, difficulty remembering things and concentrating, etc.
Social anxiety disorder is when an individual fears judgment or embarrassment from their peers. Usually, the fear or anxiety that individuals experience is disproportionate to the risk of being viewed negatively. This feeling should last for more than six months, causing individuals to avoid social gatherings. Some symptoms include trembling, shaking, poor eye contact, sweating, blushing, crying, freezing in place, etc.
Phobias are irrational fears of objects or situations. Experiences or beliefs cause them. These phobias can last for long periods of time and can disrupt daily life. Some examples are acrophobia, which is the fear of heights; claustrophobia, which is the fear of tight spaces; and aquaphobia, which is the fear of water.
How to treat anxiety:
If constant anxiety is hindering your everyday life, Parinda Parikh MD PC recommends you seek help. Licensed professionals should diagnose anxiety disorders. We offer comprehensive care to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. There are many ways to treat anxiety, like therapy, medication, and lowering stress-inducing situations.
Therapy:
Talk therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) are options for treatment. Talk therapy involves a therapist understanding and helping control anxiety, CBT helps individuals think and behave differently when experiencing anxiety, and ACT helps individuals through self-acceptance through mindfulness practices.
Medication:
Antidepressant medication can help relieve anxiety symptoms. Before starting any medication, talk to your doctor about the benefits and side effects.
Lowering stress levels:
This is best done through stress management or avoiding things that cause increased stress, like caffeine or nicotine. Learning what triggers your anxiety and cultivating healthy sleep and exercise routines can also help lower stress levels.
