While many people experience brief anxiety caused by stressful events such as speaking in public or taking a test, millions of people suffer from such high anxiety it interferes with their daily life.
In fact, anxiety disorders affect about 40 million (or 18%) American adults over 18. For them, the constant fear and worry are overwhelming and can be crippling. Symptoms may last six months or more and can get worse if not treated. Anxiety disorders commonly occur along with other mental or physical illnesses, including alcohol or substance abuse, which may mask anxiety symptoms or make them worse.
Types of Anxiety Disorders:
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Specific phobia
- Generalized anxiety disorder
Treatment
For many people, the best treatment for anxiety disorders is medication and psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves talking with a trained mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor. However, before treatment begins, a medical doctor must determine whether a person’s symptoms are caused by an anxiety disorder or a physical problem or condition. Sometimes alcoholism, depression, or other coexisting conditions may have such a strong effect on the individual that treating the anxiety disorder must wait until the coexisting conditions are brought under control.
Medication
Medication will not cure anxiety disorders, but it can keep them under control while the person receives psychotherapy. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs and beta-blockers are most often used to control some of the physical symptoms. With proper treatment, many people with anxiety disorders can lead normal, fulfilling lives.
If you or someone you know may be suffering from an anxiety disorder, please schedule an appointment with an iTherapyRX counselor to discuss your concerns.
