If you’re one of the millions of people struggling with anxiety, know that you’re not alone. There are many different types of anxiety disorders, each with its own set of symptoms. Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, and there are many effective anxiety treatments available. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common types of anxiety treatment and what research says about their effectiveness.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal emotion that we all experience at one point or another. In fact, they are some of the most common forms of mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults aged 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year. It’s only when anxiety starts to interfere with our daily lives that it becomes a problem. While anxiety disorders are highly treatable, only 36.9% of those suffering receive adequate treatment. This may be due to a lack of understanding about anxiety and its symptoms, or a lack of access to quality anxiety treatment.
What are the different types of anxiety disorders and their symptoms?
Anxiety disorders are classified into several types, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common anxiety disorders are:
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
This is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry about a variety of topics, such as personal health, work, school, or finances. People with GAD often feel like they can’t control their anxiety, and it interferes with their daily lives.
Panic disorder
This is characterized by sudden and unexpected episodes of intense anxiety, called “panic attacks.” These attacks can occur at any time and may be triggered by certain situations or activities. Physical symptoms include heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or stomach upset. People with panic disorder often live in fear of having another attack and may avoid places or situations where they think an attack could happen.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
This is characterized by intense anxiety and self-consciousness in social situations. People with SAD may worry about being judged or embarrassed in social settings, such as at work, school, or during social events. They may avoid social situations altogether or may only be able to cope by drinking alcohol or using drugs.
Specific phobias
These are intense fears of specific objects or situations, such as heights, flying, snakes, or public speaking. People with specific phobias often go to great lengths to avoid the object or situation they’re afraid of.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
This is characterized by intrusive and unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that lead to anxiety-inducing behaviors (compulsions). People with OCD often feel like they have to perform certain rituals or routines in order to “ward off” their anxiety. For example, someone with OCD may feel the need to wash their hands over and over again or to check the locks multiple times.
If you’re experiencing anxiety, it’s important to talk to a doctor or mental health professional to get a proper diagnosis. Only a professional can determine which anxiety disorder(s) you may have and recommend the most effective treatment.
What are some of the most common anxiety treatments and what research says about their effectiveness?
There are many anxiety treatments available, and the most effective anxiety treatment for you will depend on the type(s) of anxiety disorder you have. Some of the most common anxiety treatments include:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
This is a type of psychotherapy that helps people identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. CBT has been shown to be an effective anxiety treatment for all types of anxiety disorders. Read more about CBT treatment.
Exposure therapy
This is a type of CBT that involves gradually exposing yourself to the object or situation you’re afraid of. Exposure therapy can help people with specific phobias or OCD overcome their fears.
Relaxation techniques
These techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation, can help you manage anxiety by reducing stress and anxiety symptoms.
Medication
There are several types of anxiety medications available, such as antidepressants, beta-blockers, and anti-anxiety medications. These medications can be helpful for some people, but they should be used in conjunction with other anxiety treatments.
Research suggests that a combination of anxiety treatments is often most effective. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional about which anxiety treatment(s) may be right for you. Clear offers a virtual anxiety treatment program to California residents.
How can you find the right anxiety treatment for you or your loved one?
The first step in finding the right anxiety treatment is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. Only a professional can diagnose anxiety disorders and recommend the most effective treatment.
Once you’ve been diagnosed, you and your doctor or mental health professional can work together to create a treatment plan that includes the strategies that are most likely to be effective for you. If one anxiety treatment doesn’t work, don’t give up – there are many other treatments available, and it may take some trial and error to find the right one for you.
How can anxiety disorders be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent anxiety disorders. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. These include:
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating a healthy diet
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques or talk therapy
- Avoiding drug and alcohol abuse
What should you do if you think you or a loved one may have an anxiety disorder?
If you’re supporting a loved one with anxiety, there are also things you can do to help. Learn as much as you can about anxiety disorders and anxiety treatments. This will help you better understand what your loved one is going through and how you can best support them. You can also provide emotional support and encouragement – let your loved one know that you’re there for them and that you believe in their ability to recover.
Anxiety Treatment for You
There are many anxiety treatments available, and the most effective treatment for you will depend on the type of anxiety disorder you have. Some of the most common anxiety treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, relaxation techniques, and medications. A combination of anxiety treatments is often most effective. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional about which anxiety treatment may be right for you. Don’t wait – anxiety disorders can get worse over time, so it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
If you think you or a loved one may have an anxiety disorder, call Clear Behavioral Health to learn more about your treatment options including mental health residential treatment for severe anxiety, outpatient mental health programs, and virtual IOP serving all of California. Start your journey toward a life free of anxiety today.
