Whether you are suffering from anxiety, or you are someone who cares for someone who is, there are a few things you should know. These tips can help you manage anxiety better, and get your life back on track.
Generalized anxiety disorder
Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder include anxiety and restlessness. People with GAD have a tendency to worry uncontrollably about their health, work, finances, and family.
Generalized anxiety disorder is a common mental illness that can affect men, women, and children. It is not known why people develop it, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle. A person's personality can also be a factor. People with shy and timid temperaments may be more prone to developing GAD.
It is important to seek help early. In addition to talking to your health care provider, you may benefit from psychotherapy or medication.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective treatments for generalized anxiety disorder. This therapy helps patients to identify thoughts and feelings that cause them anxiety, and then change them. It also teaches patients to develop mindfulness skills that will help them to step back from their anxious thoughts.
Panic disorder
During a panic attack, the person feels as though he or she may faint or experience physical pain. They also feel powerless and unable to control their emotions. The symptoms can be as simple as chest pains or as serious as heart palpitations and dizziness.
While there is no cure for panic disorder, there are several medications and techniques to help manage the symptoms. This includes pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, biofeedback interventions and psychotherapy.
Antidepressants are one of the most popular medications for panic disorder. Originally designed to treat depression, these medications work by altering nerve messages sent through the brain.
These medications work by reuptaking serotonin in the brain. They also block the reuptake of norepinephrine, a chemical which controls the fight or flight mechanism.
Another common treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy. This technique teaches people to recognize their feelings and avoid behaviors that trigger panic attacks.
Specific phobias
Generally speaking, specific phobias are irrational fears of a specific object or situation. These fears can affect a person's everyday life. They may also interfere with a person's social, professional, and familial relationships.
Phobias may be caused by a traumatic event, but learning may also play a role. If a person has a phobia, it is important to seek treatment.
Specific phobias can interfere with daily life, as the person is often afraid to engage in certain activities. For example, a person living in a city may have to choose between going to work or riding an elevator. This may be especially difficult for a child with a phobia. The child may express anxiety through tantrums or crying, and may try to hold on to a parent or caretaker.
Social anxiety disorder
Those who suffer from social anxiety disorder have an intense fear of being negatively evaluated. These feelings can interfere with their daily lives and relationships. The condition can also lead to substance abuse.
If you are experiencing symptoms of social anxiety, you may want to consider seeing a therapist. They can help you work through your problems and learn new coping skills.
A therapist may also suggest medication to help you control your symptoms. There are several types of antidepressants and antianxiety medications that can help. They include SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as citalopram, fluoxetine and paroxetine. These medications can help to relieve symptoms and treat the cause of social anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help with social anxiety. It teaches patients to replace their negative thoughts with more positive ones.
Separation anxiety disorder
Symptoms of separation anxiety disorder can vary depending on the child's age and developmental stage. It may be mild or severe. A pediatric neurologist or child psychologist can make a diagnosis.
While there is no magic pill that will cure all separation anxiety, there are some strategies that can help reduce symptoms. The first step is to determine the nature of your child's anxiety. Some children may be naturally shy and overly concerned with being away from their parents. In these cases, it may be best to re-engage in activities with your child to help re-establish trust.
Behavioral therapy is also an important component of treatment for separation anxiety disorder. Children will learn coping strategies to deal with anxiety-provoking thoughts. A combination of psychotherapy and medication can treat a child's symptoms.
