For most, anxiety is part of everyday life. Anxiety may come and go throughout the day. People may feel anxious navigating morning traffic, during arguments, or when facing approaching deadlines.
Some people live with more anxiety than others. For some, anxiety can keep people from functioning well. People with anxiety that impairs functioning may have an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders typically respond well to treatment. Therapy is one of the most important aspects of treating anxiety. This article will explore some of the most common therapies used to treat different types of anxiety disorders. You will learn:
- What anxiety is
- Information about anxiety disorders
- What types of therapy are effective in treating anxiety
- Where to find therapy for anxiety
If you or someone you love struggles with an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Find compassionate, effective treatment for anxiety by contacting Agape Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a physical and emotional response. Anxiety can cause emotional symptoms, including worry, nervousness, or a sense of uneasiness. People may also experience physical symptoms, including:
- Agitation
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Difficulty maintaining concentration or focus
- Fatigue
- Elevated heart rate
- Muscle tension
- Shortness of breath
- Excessive sweating
Some anxiety is normal and expected in daily life. However, some people experience more anxiety, which can impair functioning and reduce quality of life. People with anxiety that overwhelms their coping ability may have an anxiety disorder.
Mental health professionals believe that anxiety disorders have complex roots. Genetics, trauma, medical conditions, and brain chemistry may all contribute to anxiety disorders.
Some people experience short-term bouts of anxiety related to a specific event. Others live with a long-term anxiety disorder that can last for many years. Generally, anxiety responds well to holistic treatment, including lifestyle changes, medications, and talk therapy.
An Overview of Anxiety Disorders
Living with an anxiety disorder can be challenging. Anxiety can make it more difficult for people to function in their daily lives. They may also have trouble controlling their responses to triggers or specific situations.
There are many types of anxiety disorders. Here is an overview of some of the most common anxiety disorders.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) causes symptoms of anxiety with no clear cause. People may become overwhelmed more easily or worry about everyday things more than others.
Panic disorder
People with panic disorder experience distressing events called panic attacks. During a panic attack, people experience intense dread and fear. They may have physical symptoms like:
- Chest tightness or pain
- Racing heart
- Sweating
- Tingling in the limbs
- Feeling like they are choking or can’t breathe
- Dizziness
While a panic attack isn’t dangerous, it can be highly distressing.
Phobias
Phobias are intense fear in response to a specific item, living thing, or activity. People may have phobias about:
- Snakes, insects, rodents, or other creatures
- Heights
- Flying
- Being in small spaces
These and other phobias can cause people to alter their lives to avoid the stimulus that causes anxiety.
Social anxiety disorder
Social anxiety disorder is an intense fear or dread of socialization. People with social anxiety disorder may avoid crowds or feel very anxious in public places. They may fear embarrassment or judgment. This anxiety can result in increased isolation and impaired functioning.
Therapy for Anxiety
There are many types of anxiety that are effective in treating anxiety. Here is an overview of some of the most common anxiety therapies.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most common therapies used to treat anxiety and depression. People typically attend several therapy sessions with a licensed therapist.
During individual or group sessions, people learn to identify and change destructive patterns of thinking and behavior. This can lead to reduced anxiety and better functioning.
Exposure therapy
Exposure therapy can help people address their fears instead of avoiding them. Mental health professionals may recommend it for people with phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, GAD, and other anxiety disorders.
During therapy sessions, a therapist gradually exposes a person to the stimulus that causes anxiety. They help people develop tools to remain calm and regulate their emotions. This can help people to tolerate the stimulus and reduce fear.
Support groups
People may attend support groups as part of an inpatient mental health treatment plan or as part of an outpatient plan. Support groups provide a safe space to learn about anxiety, develop coping skills, and find peer support.
Sometimes, mental health professionals may advise someone to take medications or make lifestyle changes to help with managing anxiety. It is crucial to work with a licensed mental health professional to find the medications and therapies that work best for you.
Find Anxiety Treatment in Fort Pierce
Agape Behavioral Center is a Fort Pierce-based inpatient mental health treatment center dedicated to providing top-quality care and personalized treatment plans for all individuals struggling with mental illness. Our unique approach incorporates evidence-based therapies as well as holistic methods designed to foster the healing of mind, body, and spirit.
If you or someone you love require treatment for anxiety, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at Agape Behavioral Health to learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment.
