10 Best Facebook Pages Of All-Time About Disorders Anxiety
What Are Anxiety Disorders? People suffering from anxiety disorders have anxieties and fears that are out of proportion to a particular situation or, in the case of generalized anxiety disorder, about various situations. They also have trouble controlling these symptoms. Symptoms of anxiety disorders usually start in the early years of childhood. The root cause of anxiety disorders is unclear. However, genes and life experiences can contribute to the cause. Symptoms An anxiety disorder is diagnosed if you experience excessive worry or fear, that is difficult to manage. It could affect your daily routine. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and specific phobias, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder. People with GAD experience uncontrollable and overwhelming feelings of anxiety nearly all the time. They may have difficulty concentrating and are constantly concerned about their health, money, or work. Panic disorder is defined as short, intense episodes of fear and discomfort that may occur without warning. Symptoms include chest pain, palpitations, breathing difficulties or dizziness. People with phobias have a fear of certain things, situations, or places. Examples include heights, spiders, or enclosed spaces. People with OCD are prone to repetitive, obsessive actions as a method to cope with their fears and reducing the associated feelings of tension or discomfort. People with post-traumatic stress disorder have trouble letting go of upsetting terrifying memories that can trigger nightmares and flashbacks. The causes of anxiety disorders are not completely identified, but they may have a number of causes. Some research suggests that genetics and their environment are both crucial. For example generalized anxiety disorder tends be passed down through families, and trauma or stressful experiences in childhood increase the risk for developing an anxiety disorder. Patients with chronic medical conditions and those who use alcohol or other drugs are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder. The good news is that most anxiety disorders respond well to treatment. Talk therapy and medication can ease the symptoms of anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that teaches people to think and react in a way that can make them feel less stressed. Beta-blockers and anti-anxiety medication used to treat high pressure can help alleviate physical symptoms, such as shakes or rapid heartbeats. A doctor can recommend the appropriate dosage and medications for each individual. Getting help early can make anxiety disorders easier to manage. Diagnosis Most people have anxiety at some point, such as before giving a presentation or taking an exam. If the anxiety is persistent and uncontrollable, they interfere with daily life it could be a sign that you have an anxiety disorder. A mental health professional will identify anxiety disorders based on the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will inquire about your symptoms and the time they began and how long they lasted and if they are becoming worse, or how much they impact your life. They will also check for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid problems. Different anxiety disorders present with different symptoms. Your doctor will identify the type of anxiety disorder causing you problems and create the treatment plan. This could involve psychotherapy, medication or both. Certain people are more at risk of developing anxiety disorders than other. This includes those who have a family history of anxiety or other mental health problems and children who are exposed to or witness traumatic events, and those with certain medical conditions like systemic lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, or sleep apnea. Anxiety is more likely to be accompanied by other physiological or mental ailments, such as depression or cardiovascular disease. Anxiety disorders sufferers typically have difficulty admitting they have a problem, and seeking treatment. This is often due to stigmatization or a lack of awareness that anxiety disorders are treatable illness, or limited access to care. Anxiety disorders can be difficult to treat but with the right support most people will get better. Talk to your doctor or therapist about the things that help you manage, and stick with your treatment plan. Make sure to adhere to the prescribed dosage and attend therapy appointments. Also, try to stay away from nicotine and alcohol because they can make your anxiety symptoms worse. Talk to your family and friends and join a group of friends with the same issue. This will allow you to cope and share your experiences with others. Involve your loved ones in your treatment plan, and try to end the cycle of anxiety by spending more time on activities you enjoy like sports or hobbies. Treatment Certain kinds of anxiety disorders can be treated with psychotherapy, medication, and other complementary health practices. The medications used to treat anxiety include antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Some people may need to try a variety of different medications before finding the one that is effective for them. Caffeine, some of the over-the-counter medicines and prescriptions, illicit substances and herbal supplements can increase anxiety symptoms and interact with prescribed medications. Patients should always discuss any changes in their medication with a doctor. A combination of therapy and medication is often the best approach to manage anxiety disorders. Therapy can help you deal with your symptoms and alter your negative thoughts and beliefs that fuel anxiety. It can also assist you to practice relaxation and stress-reducing techniques like deep relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises. Treatment for anxiety can include cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches you new ways of thinking and acting to lessen your anxiety. Exposure therapy is another option, where you gradually confront the things that trigger anxiety. It could also include complementary health approaches, such as acupuncture, exercise and mindfulness. If you suffer from extreme anxiety, your doctor can prescribe a short course of fast-acting benzodiazepines to calm your symptoms. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts it is best to visit the emergency room. The medication may ease symptoms, but they do not treat anxiety disorders. They cannot eliminate the root causes of your symptoms, and they should be taken on a regular basis. Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders mix psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy such as cognitive behavior therapy or exposure therapy. You can reduce anxiety symptoms by exercising regularly and eating healthy meals, as well as drinking moderately. A good night's sleep and avoiding nicotine can also help. It is important to maintain social connections and avoid loneliness because loneliness can worsen anxiety symptoms. You can use the ADAA Find-a Therapist database to find a Therapist near you, or visit BetterHelp, a service that matches clients with licensed therapists starting at just $49. Prevention Humans are conditioned to experience anxiety and fear when certain circumstances arise. It is our body's way to prepare us to defend ourselves or flee from danger. However, if these feelings linger and begin to interfere with daily life and become a problem, it's considered to be an anxiety disorder. Anxiety symptoms are caused by a variety of factors like stress, genetics, and trauma. The positive side is that many people with anxiety disorder can overcome it with assistance of treatment. The first step is to talk with your primary healthcare provider about your symptoms. Your doctor will assess your condition and recommend you to an expert in mental health should it be necessary. The most effective treatments for anxiety disorders is psychotherapy and medications. Talk therapy can help you learn to manage your emotions and modify negative thinking patterns that contribute to your anxiety. Certain medications can help you manage your symptoms and help you focus on healthier behaviors. Some examples of medicines that are used to combat anxiety include antidepressants beta blockers, as well as benzodiazepines. Practicing relaxation techniques, like meditation and deep breathing can help reduce your anxiety. Avoiding substances like caffeine that can affect your mood can be beneficial. Regular exercise can help reduce stress. If you're having trouble dealing with anxiety try to be social more often or take up a new hobby to keep your mind off of anxieties. It's crucial to understand that anxiety disorders tend to begin in the early years of adolescence or childhood and run in families. Some people who have been through a difficult time in their life for example, abuse in childhood or severe loss, may be at a higher risk of developing an anxiety disorder. The USPSTF recommends that all adults including postpartum and pregnant women should be screened for anxiety disorders. The risk of suffering from anxiety disorders should be assessed on a case-by case basis, taking into consideration the individual risks and benefits. In the absence of any evidence regarding the optimal frequency of screening doctors are advised to make use of their judgment when evaluating a person's risks, comorbidities and life events to determine whether additional screening is needed.