Anxiety

More than 30% of adults in the United States struggle with an anxiety disorder at some point during their life. The highly skilled team at Westwood Psychiatry Associates in Westwood, New Jersey, takes a collaborative and individualized approach to anxiety, creating treatment plans that ease symptoms and improve quality of life. For caring and compassionate psychiatry care from an experienced team, call or schedule an in-office or telemedicine appointment online today.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of fear or nervousness that occurs during stressful situations. These feelings are temporary and go away once the stress resolves.

However, when you have persistent feelings of fear, worry, or nervousness that worsens over time and interferes with your daily routine, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders are a type of mental illness that makes it hard for you to get through your day, causing emotional reactions over which you feel you have no control. 

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

Your anxiety may have varying triggers and symptoms based on the type. Common types of anxiety disorders include:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

GAD causes ongoing fear, worry, or nervousness about every day things for six or more months. This type of anxiety is so overwhelming it consumes most of your day.

Panic disorder

Panic disorder occurs when you have frequent, unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack causes intense, paralyzing fear along with physical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath that lasts several minutes. 

Social anxiety disorder

People with social anxiety disorder have an intense fear of being harshly judged by others, avoiding social situations.

Phobias

Phobias are fears towards specific objects or situations, like fear of germs or heights. 

When should I get help for anxiety?

It’s normal to have anxiety every now and then. However, you should seek help from the experts at Westwood Psychiatry Associates if your anxiety is so severe it affects how you live your life.

The team specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of anxiety disorders. They conduct a thorough evaluation during your first visit, asking detailed questions about your symptoms and life story.

What are the treatments for anxiety?

The team at Westwood Psychiatry Associates takes a collaborative approach to care and talks to you about your treatment options for anxiety. Together, you develop a plan to improve your symptoms. 

Treatment options for anxiety include:

Psychotherapy

The team tailors your psychotherapy to your specific anxieties and needs. They use evidence-based techniques, teaching you strategies that help you manage your fears so they no longer control your life.

Medication management

The team at Westwood Psychiatry Associates may prescribe medication to reduce your symptoms while you undergo psychotherapy. Your medication management may include anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants.

When your anxiety is so overwhelming that it affects your daily routine, it’s time to reach out for help. Call Westwood Psychiatry Associates today or schedule an appointment online.