Anxiety is a common mental health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It can cause fear, worry, and unease in people who experience it and can seriously impact their day-to-day lives. From difficulty concentrating to physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue, anxiety can take its toll both mentally and physically. Fortunately, Empowered Recovery Center’s anxiety treatment in Kansas City is available to help them manage their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of fear, worry, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It can be triggered by specific events or situations, or it can occur without any direct cause. However, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of developing anxiety such as genetic predisposition, stressful life events, chronic medical conditions, and other co-occurring mental health disorders. Additionally, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states that several parts of the brain and biological processes play a key role in anxiety.
The symptoms of anxiety vary from one person to another but they commonly include:
- Restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle tension
- Worry excessively
- Insomnia
- Trembling
- Panic attacks
- Trouble breathing
- Headaches, stomachaches, muscle pain
- Difficulty swallowing
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several anxiety disorders that affect people of all ages. Some of the most common anxiety disorders include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is a common mental health condition affecting millions of people around the world. It is characterized by excessive and persistent worry or anxiety that can interfere with daily activities and life goals. People with GAD often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including irritability, restlessness, inability to concentrate, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, and muscle tension.
- Panic Disorder: It is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of overwhelming fear and panic that can strike at any time, even in completely benign situations. Panic attacks may cause physical symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness. The causes of panic disorder are not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a common mental health condition that affects approximately 7% of the population. It is characterized by intense fear and anxiety in social situations, which can lead to avoidance behaviors and significant impairment in daily functioning. People with social anxiety disorder may experience physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat when in social situations. They may also have negative thoughts and beliefs about themselves and the judgment of others, leading to feelings of inferiority and shame.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder that can occur after a person experiences a traumatic event. This could be anything from a natural disaster to a physical assault, a car accident, or a combat experience. PTSD is characterized by a persistent feeling of fear, anxiety, and stress that can manifest in a number of ways, including flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of certain people or places.
Treatment for Anxiety
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to help people manage their anxiety symptoms. Common treatment options include talk therapy (cognitive behavioral therapy or psychotherapy), medications, or a combination of both. Our experienced professionals can work with our clients to create an individualized treatment plan that works best for their needs.
At our Anxiety Treatment Center in Kansas City, we offer specialized services tailored to provide relief from anxiety symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Our compassionate team of experts will take the time to understand each client’s unique situation and develop a plan to help them find relief. We offer evidence-based treatments such as medication management to help our clients achieve their goals.
Medication Management
When it comes to treating anxiety, medication management can play an important role in alleviating symptoms. There are several types of medications that can be prescribed for anxiety, including antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta blockers.
Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), work by increasing the levels of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are associated with mood regulation, and increasing their levels can help reduce anxiety symptoms.
Frequently prescribed, benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Ativan, are fast-acting medications that can provide immediate relief for anxiety. However, they should not be used for extended periods due to the high risk of dependence. Therefore, they are usually only prescribed for short-term use.
Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, are typically used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions. However, they can also be helpful in reducing physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling.
It’s important to note that medication management should always be done under the guidance of a qualified professional. They can help determine the best medication and dosage for each individual’s needs. Additionally, they monitor people for any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
In addition to medication, therapy and lifestyle changes can also be effective in treating anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals learn to manage their anxiety by identifying and changing negative thought patterns. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and mindfulness, can also be helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms.
Ultimately, finding the right treatment plan for anxiety will depend on each individual’s unique situation and needs. By working with a mental health professional, individuals can develop a comprehensive plan that includes medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes to effectively manage their anxiety and improve their overall quality of life.
Anxiety and Addiction Treatment Kansas City
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Taking the first step and reaching out for help is an important part of finding relief and taking control of your life again. If you are struggling with anxiety and would like to learn more about the treatment options available at our anxiety treatment center in Kansas City, our team is here to answer questions and support you every step of the way on your journey toward healing and recovery.
Please contact us today for a consultation at our anxiety treatment center in Kansas City.
