Anxiety Disorders Treatment

Evidence-based treatment for generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and phobias

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Understanding Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting approximately 31% of adults at some point in their lives. While everyone experiences anxiety occasionally, anxiety disorders involve persistent, excessive worry and fear that interfere with daily activities.

Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only about 37% of those affected receive treatment. With proper care, most people with anxiety disorders can lead normal, fulfilling lives.

31%

Adults affected

90%

Success rate with treatment

6+ Types

Anxiety disorders

Types of Anxiety Disorders We Treat

We provide specialized treatment for all major anxiety disorders.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Persistent, excessive worry about various aspects of life including work, health, family, and daily routines. Worry is difficult to control and interferes with concentration and daily activities.

  • Chronic worrying about everyday concerns
  • Difficulty controlling worry
  • Restlessness and feeling on edge
  • Muscle tension and fatigue

Panic Disorder

Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden periods of intense fear that reach a peak within minutes. Often accompanied by fear of future panic attacks and avoidance of situations where attacks have occurred.

  • Sudden, intense fear or discomfort
  • Heart palpitations and chest pain
  • Shortness of breath or choking sensation
  • Fear of losing control or dying

Social Anxiety Disorder

Intense fear of social situations where one might be scrutinized, judged, or embarrassed. This fear leads to avoidance of social interactions and can significantly impact work, school, and relationships.

  • Fear of social or performance situations
  • Worry about embarrassment or humiliation
  • Avoidance of social interactions
  • Physical symptoms in social settings

Specific Phobias

Intense, irrational fear of specific objects or situations (heights, flying, animals, blood, etc.). The fear is disproportionate to the actual danger and leads to avoidance behaviors.

  • Excessive fear of specific object or situation
  • Immediate anxiety response when exposed
  • Active avoidance of feared stimulus
  • Interference with normal routine

Agoraphobia

Fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur. Often involves fear of open spaces, crowds, public transportation, or being outside the home alone.

  • Fear of open or enclosed spaces
  • Fear of crowds or public places
  • Avoidance of leaving home
  • Need for companion when going out

Separation Anxiety

Excessive anxiety about separation from home or attachment figures. While common in children, it can also affect adults. Involves persistent worry about losing or harm coming to loved ones.

  • Excessive distress when separated
  • Worry about losing loved ones
  • Reluctance to be alone
  • Nightmares about separation

Common Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety affects people emotionally, physically, and behaviorally.

Emotional Symptoms

  • Persistent worry or fear
  • Sense of impending doom
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Racing thoughts
  • Anticipating the worst
  • Restlessness or feeling on edge

Physical Symptoms

  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating or trembling
  • Muscle tension or aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Digestive problems
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

Behavioral Symptoms

  • Avoiding anxiety-provoking situations
  • Procrastination or difficulty completing tasks
  • Social withdrawal
  • Seeking constant reassurance
  • Compulsive behaviors
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Substance use to cope
  • Nervous habits (nail biting, fidgeting)

Our Treatment Approach

We offer comprehensive, evidence-based treatments proven effective for anxiety disorders.

Comprehensive Assessment

Thorough evaluation to accurately diagnose your specific anxiety disorder and identify contributing factors, co-occurring conditions, and individual treatment needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Gold-standard treatment for anxiety disorders. CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.

  • Cognitive restructuring
  • Exposure therapy for phobias
  • Behavioral experiments
  • Skills training and practice
  • Homework assignments

Medication Management

When appropriate, medications can effectively reduce anxiety symptoms. We carefully prescribe and monitor:

  • SSRIs (first-line treatment for most anxiety disorders)
  • SNRIs (alternative antidepressants)
  • Buspirone (non-addictive anti-anxiety)
  • Beta-blockers (for physical symptoms)
  • Short-term benzodiazepines (when necessary)

Relaxation Techniques

Evidence-based relaxation and stress management strategies to reduce anxiety symptoms:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Progressive muscle relaxation
  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Guided imagery
  • Yoga and movement therapy

Exposure Therapy

Gradual, controlled exposure to feared situations or objects in a safe environment. Highly effective for phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder.

  • Systematic desensitization
  • In vivo (real-life) exposure
  • Imaginal exposure
  • Virtual reality exposure

Lifestyle Modifications

Comprehensive approach including sleep, nutrition, exercise, and substance use management:

  • Regular exercise program
  • Sleep hygiene improvement
  • Caffeine and alcohol reduction
  • Balanced nutrition
  • Stress management techniques

Benefits of Treatment

With proper treatment, most people with anxiety disorders experience significant improvement.

Reduced Worry & Fear

Significant decrease in excessive worry and fearful thoughts

Improved Daily Functioning

Better able to work, attend school, and handle daily responsibilities

Better Sleep

Improved sleep quality and reduced insomnia

Enhanced Relationships

Improved social interactions and closer connections with others

Increased Confidence

Greater self-assurance and ability to face challenging situations

Physical Health Improvement

Reduction in physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue

Better Coping Skills

Effective tools and strategies to manage anxiety triggers

Improved Quality of Life

Greater enjoyment of activities and overall life satisfaction

When to Seek Help

Consider seeking treatment if you experience:

Worry or anxiety that feels excessive or uncontrollable

Anxiety that interferes with work, school, or relationships

Panic attacks or intense physical symptoms

Avoidance of situations due to fear or anxiety

Sleep problems related to worry

Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or trembling

Using alcohol or substances to cope with anxiety

Depression or other mental health concerns alongside anxiety

In Crisis?

If you're experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate help:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Emergency: Call 911 or go to nearest ER

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder?

Normal anxiety is temporary and proportional to a stressful situation. An anxiety disorder involves persistent, excessive worry that's disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily life.

How long does treatment take?

Many people notice improvement within 8-12 weeks of starting treatment. However, complete recovery may take several months. Some people benefit from ongoing maintenance treatment.

Do I need medication for anxiety?

Not necessarily. Therapy alone, particularly CBT, is highly effective for many anxiety disorders. Medication is recommended when symptoms are severe or haven't responded to therapy alone. We'll work with you to determine the best approach.

Are anxiety medications addictive?

SSRIs and SNRIs (first-line medications for anxiety) are not addictive. Benzodiazepines can be habit-forming, which is why we prescribe them cautiously and typically only for short-term use.

Can anxiety be cured?

While anxiety disorders are chronic conditions, they're highly treatable. Most people achieve significant symptom reduction and learn effective coping strategies. Many people recover completely and don't require ongoing treatment.

Will I have to face my fears in treatment?

Exposure therapy is very effective but is done gradually and at your pace. You're always in control. We work collaboratively to face fears in a safe, supportive environment.

Take Control of Your Anxiety

Don't let anxiety control your life. Our experienced team is here to help you find relief and regain confidence.