Managing Anxiety in Garden City and Levittown, NY
What is Anxiety and What are Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety is occasional fear about an event or situation. An anxiety disorder is frequent, persistent fearful, and worrisome thoughts about everyday events or situations. The feelings may become out of control and are exaggerated as to the actual danger of the event or situation.
Causes of Anxiety Disorders
An anxiety disorder can develop due to a traumatic event or situation. An anxiety disorder may also be a sign of a developing mental or physical illness. Anxiety can also be caused by some medications.
Risk Factors for Developing an Anxiety Disorder
You are at increased risk of developing an anxiety disorder if you’ve experienced a traumatic event, are dealing with significant stress, or have another mental health disorder such as depression. Some personality traits increase susceptibility to an anxiety disorder, or if you have a family history of anxiety disorders.
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders
There are several signs and symptoms common to anxiety disorders. The most common signs and symptoms include:
- Feelings of nervousness, tension, or restlessness
- A sense of impending danger or doom
- Increasing heart rate and respiration
- Sweating and trembling
- Weakness and fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Experiencing gastrointestinal upset
- Uncontrolled worrisome thoughts and fears
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Agoraphobia, which is a fear of being trapped and unable to escape
- Anxiety due to a medical condition
- Generalized anxiety disorder, which is fear related to routine events
- Panic disorder, which is experiencing intense anxiety, fear, or terror
- Separation anxiety disorder, which is fear of being separated from parents or others close to a child
- Social anxiety disorder, which is fear and avoidance of social situations due to self-consciousness
- Phobias, which are fears related to specific things, events, or situations
- Substance-induced anxiety disorder, which is anxiety due to abuse, misuse, or withdrawal from a substance
Anxiety Treatment
Treatment for anxiety includes medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. Psychotherapy is another important part of anxiety treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy can help minimize fearful reactions to anxiety triggers.
Prevention of Anxiety Disorders
It’s important to engage in activities you enjoy, to promote feelings of self-worth. Enjoy time spent with friends and family, to establish a sense of belonging. Seek out professional help if you experience frequent feelings of anxiety and avoid the use of drugs and alcohol.
How To Get Help
- Call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or use Lifeline Chat
- If you are a veteran or service member, press “1” for the Veterans Crisis Line or text 838255
- For Spanish language, call 1-888-628-9454
- Call your medical provider