Everyone experiences anxiety sometimes. In fact, anxiety can be a healthy emotional tool for dealing with high-risk situations. However, chronic anxiety is not healthy, and it can lead to the onset of unhealthy decision-making. If you have anxiety that interferes with your day-to-day life, you may have an anxiety disorder, a treatable mental health condition.
If you are struggling with anxiety right now, know that Willow Creek Behavioral Health can offer immediate support and guidance to you. Our comprehensive treatment for anxiety disorders in Green Bay can provide you with the relief you need.
What Are Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that cause you to fear, dread, or over-analyze situations in a way that is out of proportion to reality. There are various types of anxiety disorders, all of which can be treated with effective support.
Some of the most common anxiety disorders include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder: Characterized by ongoing feelings of worry and fear, and often a sense of being constantly overwhelmed, triggered by everyday tasks, including chores and work.
- Panic disorder: A person with panic disorder experiences panic attacks, which come on without warning and create an intense level of anxiety and fear that has physical symptoms like trembling, tingling, and rapid heart rate.
- Social anxiety disorder: This type of anxiety disorder is characterized by overwhelming feelings of being judged in a negative light, being watched by others, or being unable to engage in social interactions without intense feelings.
- Agoraphobia: A person with this condition has such an intense fear of what could happen to them that they avoid going to unknown locations, especially large, crowded open areas, and prefer to stay at home.
How Do You Deal with Anxiety Disorders?
For someone who does not suffer from anxiety, the solution seems easy. “Just stop worrying about it…or just look on the bright side…” Some people may tell you that everything is “fine” even though you feel very much the opposite.
Most people with anxiety disorders recognize that their fear is unrealistic. Yet, the brain is so impacted by previous trauma or unprocessed experiences that the fear feels very real. Your heart may pound, your thoughts are racing, and you cannot seem to focus on what you have to do.
Remember that anxiety is a healthy emotion in small doses. It helps to rev up your brain and heart so you can deal with an intensely stressful situation effectively. Yet, for those with anxiety disorders, that sensation can linger and begin to interfere with the way you live your life.
How do you deal with anxiety disorders? Consider these strategies.
- Start talking about it
It may seem impossible to discuss what you are feeling with friends and family, and that’s okay. However, psychotherapy is one of the most effective ways to regain control over your thoughts and navigate the stress level you feel. There are various types of therapy available that can help you, including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
- Talk to your doctor about medications
Medications may be necessary for some people struggling with anxiety disorders that cause them to shut down or no longer experience specific activities because of fear. If you are unable to leave your home or your anxiety makes it impossible for you to work, medications may offer help. This includes medications that reduce the symptoms of anxiety, giving you relief.
- Employ stress management methods
Anxiety is very much an ongoing condition, one that warrants engaging in strategies each day to find the relief and support you need. Stress management techniques can help you get through those more challenging times effectively.
- Mindfulness practices: The use of mindfulness practices can help you to get better control over your thought processes at that moment.
- Exercise: For many people, exercise is one of the most effective ways to deal with high levels of anxiety. That’s because exercise helps burn off those stress hormones circulating in your bloodstream.
- Meditation: The use of meditation can also be highly effective, in that it can provide you with a way to focus, breathe deeply, and redirect your energy.
Know When It Is Time to Get Professional Help
Managing anxiety disorders is not something that you have to do on your own. Often, you will need mental health support from a licensed and trained professional. Let our team at Willow Creek Behavioral Health provide that support to you. Our compassionate, caring community provides you with the resources you need to move beyond the anxiety limiting your happiness. Contact us now to learn more.
