How to Treat Anxiety

Anxiety Anxiety disorder is among the most prevalent mental health disorders in the U.S>.with approximately 18 of Americans suffering from some form of anxiety (NAMI, 2017). Different types of anxiety disorders include social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias such as agoraphobia, separation anxiety, and generalized anxiety disorder (chronic worry over everyday life isues). Behavioral components of anxiety include feeling an overwhelming sense of apprehension, tense, irritable, restless, jumpy, and always anticipating the worst possible outcome.

Individuals suffering from anxiety may isolate themselves from others, have difficulty communicating what’s wrong, and may have difficulty focusing on tasks, catching their breath or gaining control of their bodies during an anxiety attack. The biological components of anxiety can include headaches, upset stomach, increased heart rate, loss of breath, sweating, tremors, fatigue, insomnia and frequent urination (NAMI, 2017). It is believed that anxiety may have a genetic or environmental cause.

Treatment options for anxiety include psychotherapy such as exposure response prevention or cognitive behavioral therapy, which is designed to help promote positive courses of action for the patient in response to the perception of an anxiety attacks coming on. Medication treatments are also available, such as anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepine and antidepressants. Self-management techniques, stress and relaxation techniques, yoga and exercise are also available options for treating the various forms.