ANXIETY

What Is Anxiety?

Understanding and Overcoming Chronic Worry and Fear

At Equilibrium Mental Health Services, we recognize that anxiety can affect every aspect of life—your thoughts, your body, and your relationships. While occasional stress and nervousness are a normal part of life, ongoing or overwhelming anxiety may signal a deeper issue. When fear or worry becomes persistent and begins to interfere with your daily functioning, it may be time to seek support for an anxiety disorder.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety presents in different forms, each with its own unique patterns and triggers. Common types of anxiety disorders include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent, excessive worry about everyday matters
• Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense episodes of fear with physical symptoms like chest pain and breathlessness
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations
• Specific Phobias: Intense fear of particular objects or situations
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety triggered by traumatic experiences
• Separation Anxiety Disorder: Excessive fear about being apart from loved ones

Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety affects both the mind and body. Symptoms can vary by individual and diagnosis, but commonly include:

• Excessive fear or worry
• Restlessness or feeling keyed up
• Difficulty focusing or staying present
• Rapid heart rate, chest tightness, or shortness of breath
• Muscle tension, tremors, or headaches
• Fatigue or trouble sleeping
• Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety

How Is Anxiety Diagnosed?

An anxiety diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, which may include:

• Reviewing the duration and severity of symptoms
• Assessing how symptoms impact daily life and responsibilities
• Exploring medical history and potential underlying health issues
• Ruling out other conditions through screenings or lab work
• Discussing personal history, including trauma or family mental health concerns

Causes and Risk Factors

Anxiety disorders stem from a variety of contributing factors. These may include:

• Genetic predisposition or family history of anxiety
• Chronic stress or exposure to trauma
• Substance use or withdrawal
• Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders
• Personality traits like perfectionism or low self-confidence

Treatment Options for Anxiety

With proper care, anxiety is highly treatable. A personalized treatment plan may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Learn to reframe anxious thoughts and behaviors
• Exposure Therapy: Gradually face fears in a safe, structured way
• Mindfulness & Relaxation: Practice stress-reduction tools to calm the mind
• Medications: SSRIs, SNRIs, or short-term use of anti-anxiety medications as needed

Lifestyle Strategies for Managing Anxiety

Small daily choices can go a long way in supporting your mental well-being. Consider:

• Exercising regularly to release built-up tension
• Maintaining balanced nutrition and staying hydrated
• Getting restful sleep and following consistent routines
• Talking with trusted friends or support groups
• Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and screen time
• Trying calming techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga

Find Relief with Equilibrium Mental Health Services

If anxiety is interfering with your peace of mind or quality of life, we’re here to help. At Equilibrium Mental Health Services, our licensed providers specialize in personalized, evidence-based anxiety care through therapy, medication management, or both.

We offer both virtual and in-person sessions to meet your needs—wherever you are. Reach out today and take the first step toward greater calm, clarity, and emotional strength.