Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Everyone feels nervous or anxious from time to time because of life events like important projects at work or changes in your life. Anxiety disorders are different. They cause intrusive, persistent, and often disproportionate fears or worry that interfere with your ability to function normally.

There are several types of anxiety disorders that are characterized by their symptoms and triggers. Generalized anxiety disorder describes intense worrying, difficulty relaxing, and physical symptoms that interfere with everyday functioning. 

Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks - frightening physical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath - as well as excessive fears and worries. Other common types of anxiety disorders include social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety, and specific phobias.

What are the common symptoms of anxiety?

Anxiety disorders cause a variety of mental, emotional, and physical symptoms. Some of the common signs of anxiety include:

• Feelings of nervousness, worry, or fear
• Sense of impending doom or danger
• Reduced concentration
• Preoccupation with present worry
• Avoiding anxiety triggers
• Insomnia
• Trembling or shaking
• Rapid breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Sweating
• Stomachache, diarrhea, or nausea

Anxiety disorders can sometimes lead to substance abuse, as some patients try to self-medicate to dull their feelings. 

When should I talk to a doctor about anxiety?

Dr. Symons and the team at Bluebird Psychiatry are here to help. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or feel like your fears are getting in the way of your day-to-day functioning or quality of life, it may be time to get help. 

The team at Bluebird Psychiatry provides thorough assessments to explore and identify anxiety disorders. When appropriate, they may also order labs and/or refer you to a primary care doctor to rule out medical causes of anxiety.

How is anxiety treated?

Dr. Symons and the team at Bluebird Psychiatry work with you and your therapist to identify and target your anxiety symptoms such as excessive worry, ruminations, and obsessive thoughts. They also help you identify anxious behaviors that interfere with your life. 

The team at Bluebird Psychiatry provides a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to treating anxiety. Depending on your symptoms, they might prescribe medication to relieve your symptoms. The medication can also provide the mental clarity you need to focus your attention on learning and practicing anxiety management strategies. 

If you are wrestling with anxiety, call Bluebird Psychiatry for compassionate, customized treatment and support.